(These baby rabbits (kits) were thought to be abandoned and were brought to Procyon Wildlife Centre.)
The Ottawa Humane Society is reminding community members to keep their distance from wildlife spotted in their neighbourhood. As the weather warms, people are more likely to encounter wildlife. Often, it is best to admire wildlife from afar.
As encounters with wildlife may become more common, this can lead to more cases of concerned community members removing wildlife from its habitat and bringing it to the OHS, even if it does not need their help. Juveniles may appear abandoned, but in fact their mother may be nearby.
“Many animals are not in need of help and may actually be worse off with it, especially juveniles,” said Sharon Miko, OHS President & CEO. “Unless it seems sick or in distress, wildlife often should be left alone.”
Each year, the OHS receives approximately 1,400 sick, injured and orphaned wild animals from Ottawa By-law and Regulatory Services officers and members of the public.
Often, rehabilitation is not an option for wild animals who are vulnerable enough to be caught and brought to the OHS, but whenever possible, the OHS works to transfer suitable animals to its partners in wildlife rehabilitation.
Recently, the OHS worked with Rideau Valley Wildlife Sanctuary to transfer a baby raccoon for rehabilitation. The raccoon was found in a fireplace and there was no sign of their mother — a clear case that the raccoon needed help.
To help prevent unwanted encounters with wildlife, the OHS recommends:
- Keeping dogs on leashes
Dogs can seriously injure wild animals. Unless in the safety and control of an off-leash dog park or an enclosed yard, keeping your dog on a leash protects wildlife and keeps your pet from having a bad encounter with a porcupine.
- Keeping cats indoors
Roaming cats can have an impact on local bird populations and small rodent populations, and can also fall prey to predators. Keeping your cat indoors unless supervised on a leash and harness or in the safety of catio will keep your cat safe and protect wild animals.
- Securing waste and food sources
Garbage bins, compost piles, and pet food left outdoors can attract wildlife, leading to potential conflicts. Secure these sources to discourage wildlife from venturing too close to areas frequented by pets. Put out garbage and recycling on the morning of pick-up, not the night before.
About the Ottawa Humane Society
The Ottawa Humane Society is a registered charity founded in 1888. The society works in and with the community to provide leadership in the humane treatment of all animals, to address the causes of animal suffering, to encourage people to take responsibility for their animal companions, and to provide care for animals who are neglected, abused, exploited, stray, or homeless.
Thank you, Lesley, for writing this article. Too many well intentioned people want to take in baby rabbits. As stated in your article, wildlife mothers are often close by but do not stay with the nest. They feed only twice a day. And baby rabbits, once their eyes are open, are pretty much on their own and can survive. It is illegal to keep wildlife. If an animal is injured, it is best to call a wildlife rehab centre.