By Charla Wurm-Adams
cwurm@wbcowqel.com
There’s nothing cuter than a young fawn and nothing more pathetic than seeing one all by itself in harsh winter weather. But that doesn’t mean it has been orphaned and it certainly doesn’t mean that it or other wild animals should be adopted as pets.
The Division of Wildlife of the Department of Natural Resources and the Crawford Park District addressed the topic of adopting wildlife at the Lowe-Volk Park Nature Center. Local ODNR Wildlife Officer Jason Parr made the presentation.
“Most of the time they are truly not orphaned. What we recommend is just if you come across a fawn or a raccoon, leave them alone. If you have any questions, give your county wildlife officer a call, but the best thing you can do is leave them alone, leave them there,” Parr said. “As a last resort, they may be taken to a wildlife rehabilitator, but we just ask you please don’t take it upon yourself to pick them up and try to raise them on your own.”
The goal of Parr’s presentation was to improve the environment for fish and wildlife by realizing the law and what is best for a wild animal. Parr reminded those in attendance that all wildlife is protected under Ohio law and possessing one could result in a fourth-degree misdemeanor citation with a possible fine up to $250 and/or jail time up 30 days.
“(We’ve) been getting several calls on people that come across what they believe be orphan wild life and in most situations, that is not the case. They aren’t truly orphaned,” Parr said. “Most wild animals are raised usually by one parent and at one point throughout the day, that parent will leave them to go feed on their own.”
Those who are interested in legally possessing live wild animals can do so if they purchase them through an individual licensed to handle and sell them.
Those with questions or concerns can call a wildlife officer at the Wildlife District 2 Office in Findlay at 419-424-5000 or visit the website at www.dnr.state.ohio.us/Home.