Physical distancing isn’t just for humans, as the Ministry of the Environment is urging residents to leave young wildlife alone and not to touch them.

The Ministry says trying to help wild animals that appear orphaned or loss can be detrimental to their health and safety. In nature, young animals and birds are purposely placed into seclusion by their mothers to protect them from predators, and most often young animals are not abandoned or deserted and the mother is nearby.

The Ministry states chances for survival decrease when young animals come into contact from humans and it’s best to leave them alone and enjoy the animals from a distance. Young wildlife should only be picked up if the parent is found dead nearby or in an unnatural situation such as a young bird found on a doorstep. In that case it is recommended that the bird be moved to the closest suitable habitat.

The Ministry of the Environment says only wildlife rehabilitators are licensed to care for orphaned or injured animals.

If there are obvious signs of injury or evidence that the animal has bee orphaned contact the Ministry of the Environment at 1-800-657-4224 or by email at centre.inquiry@gov.sk.ca for more information.