Springfield, IL – As the weather warms up and more Illinois residents spend time outdoors, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is urging people to refrain from handling wild animals and birds, particularly young ones. With spring bringing a surge of wildlife activity, the IDNR is reminding residents to avoid the temptation to intervene when encountering baby birds, rabbits, fawns, and other young creatures in the wild.
While it’s natural to feel compelled to help an animal that appears abandoned, experts stress that human interference can often do more harm than good. In most cases, young wildlife are still being cared for by their parents, who tend to stay away from their offspring when humans are present. IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie emphasized that observing wildlife from a distance is the best way to show care.
“The most helpful thing people can do for wildlife is to enjoy the animals through observation, not interference,” said Finnie. “If you really care about the animals, just leave them alone when you come across them in nature.”
The IDNR also highlighted that many wild birds and animals are protected under Illinois state law, which prohibits keeping wild animals as pets or removing them from their natural habitat. This includes migratory birds, which are additionally protected by federal law under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Several species of wildlife, including birds, rabbits, and deer, are often misinterpreted as abandoned, though they are simply following natural behaviors. For instance, fledgling birds—young birds that have just left the nest—often spend time on the ground while they continue to grow, and their parents are still providing for them. Similarly, fawns are frequently left alone by their mothers, who return to feed them later, and baby rabbits often remain hidden during the day.
Residents are also reminded of the dangers of handling wildlife, as wild animals can carry diseases, such as rabies and avian influenza, which can be transmitted to humans. The public is advised to avoid contact with sick or injured birds and to consult a licensed wildlife rehabilitator if they encounter an animal that appears to be in distress.
For more information on how to safely interact with wildlife, or to report potential wildlife conflicts, residents can visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website.
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