Cue the “aww,” it’s baby animal season here in Cook County! While it’s exciting to spot a baby bunny or a fledgling bird, well-meaning “rescues” can often do more harm than good. Most young wildlife found alone aren’t orphaned, their parents are simply nearby, foraging for food or watching from a distance. 

Keep these tips in mind before you step in:

• Observe from a distance: Many species, like white-tailed deer and rabbits, only return to their young at dawn and dusk to avoid leading predators to the nest. If you stay too close, the parents may be too afraid to return. 

• Observe the animal: A baby animal that looks well-fed, has bright eyes, and clean fur or feathers is likely doing just fine. 

• Understand nature: Every year, licensed rehabilitators receive hundreds of healthy animals that were taken from their parents by accident. If the animal isn’t injured or in immediate danger, leave it be. If you’re still unsure, call your local rehabber and they can often give you the best information. Sometimes it is best to let nature take the lead.  

• Know who to call: If you are certain an animal is orphaned (ex. you found the deceased mother) or if the baby is visibly injured, reach out to a professional immediately. 

• Please keep in mind that our nature centers and other Forest Preserves locations are not licensed to take in animals or rehabilitate them. 

For a full list of licensed wildlife rehabilitators here in Illinois, check out: https://wildlifeillinois.org/get-help-for-injured-wildlife/list-of-licensed-wildlife-rehabilitators/