ILLINOIS (WCIA) — As the weather grows warmer and people spend more time outside, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is reminding everyone to avoid handling wild animals and birds.

The IDNR said that while young rabbits, deer and birds appear to need help, usually, human intervention does more harm than good. If humans are nearby, the parents of young animals will stay away.

“The most helpful thing people can do for wildlife is to enjoy the animals through observation, not interference,” IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie said. “If you really care about the animals, just leave them alone when you come across them in nature.”

Keeping wild animals as pets is prohibited by the Illinois Wildlife Code. Many wild birds are protected by this code as well. This includes their eggs, nests and feathers.

The IDNR said it’s important to avoid handling wildlife because it’s not only illegal, but it can be dangerous as well. Many species carry diseases which can be passed on to people, some of which are fatal.

In Illinois, the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (bird flu) has spread to wild birds throughout the state. The public is asked not to handle or capture waterfowl, especially those showing signs of illness.

“We understand that the desire to help wildlife is strong, but it often comes at a cost,” IDNR wildlife chief Mike Wefer said. “Survival rates for relocated wildlife are very low, and the risk of accidentally moving diseases from one place to another is high.” 

Anyone with further questions about care for potentially abandoned wildlife should talk to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator before taking action. To learn more about orphaned animals, potential wildlife conflicts, and keeping people, pets, and wildlife safe, visit Wildlife Illinois.