Every year, spring and summer mark the start of "baby season" for wildlife—when birds, mammals, and other critters bring their little ones into the world. While this season is most active from March through August, it’s important to stay alert all year. Depending on the species, you may spot baby animals in different stages of growth well into fall. Knowing how to help (or when to leave them alone) is essential for their survival.
One of the most common encounters is finding a baby bird on the ground. But here’s a tip: if the bird is fully feathered and hopping around, it’s a fledgling—just learning to fly and still under their parents’ care. Unless the bird is in immediate danger (like near a busy street), it’s best to give them space. If the bird is a naked or partially feathered nestling, gently place them back in their nest if possible.
Check your yard carefully before doing outdoor chores like mowing, trimming hedges, or clearing brush. Rabbits, birds, and even deer often nest in surprising spots. Seeing a “lonely” fawn or rabbit nest doesn’t mean they’re abandoned— they’re likely waiting for mom to return. Resist the urge to move the babies unless they’re visibly injured.
For families, baby season is a great chance to turn outdoor time into a learning adventure. Teach kids to observe wildlife from a distance and recognize signs of baby animals. Turn it into a game—how many nests can they spot? Can you see birds flying with nest making materials? You might even start a “wildlife journal” to record sightings and fun facts.
Found an animal in distress? Your actions can make a big difference. Visit our action page to learn exactly what steps to take and how you can help.
Baby Season Tips – FAQs
- How can I tell if a baby animal really needs help?
If they’re visibly injured, weak, or have been caught by a pet, they likely need help. For birds, a nestling without feathers on the ground might need a hand back into the nest, but fully feathered fledglings should be left alone. When in doubt, call a wildlife rehabber before intervening! - Do animal parents abandon their babies if humans touch them?
Nope! That’s a myth. Most wild parents aren’t bothered by human scent. If you have to move a baby back to a safer spot, mom will usually return once things are quiet. - What should I do if I find a nest of baby rabbits in my yard?
Cover the nest back up and keep pets and kids away. Mom will return at dusk and dawn to feed them. Baby rabbits grow quickly and will leave the nest in a few weeks. - Can I raise an orphaned wild baby on my own?
It might seem like a kind thing to do, but wild babies need specialized care to survive. Please do not “foster” wildlife. Raising one yourself can do more harm than good. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabber for help. - Is it safe to move a fallen bird nest?
Yes, as long as you place it close to where it fell. Put the nest back in a nearby tree or shrub and watch from a distance. The parent birds will usually come back once it’s secure. - How can I help wildlife during baby season without disturbing them?
Create a wildlife-friendly yard by planting native plants, leaving natural cover for nesting animals, and keeping pets supervised. Observe wildlife from a distance, and resist the urge to handle wild babies unless absolutely necessary. - What if I see a baby animal being chased by a pet?
Quickly remove your pet from the situation and check if the baby is injured. If they look hurt, call a wildlife rehabber. Even minor injuries can be serious for wild babies. An animal bitten by a cat or dog definitely needs to be brought to a licensed rehabber for treatment.
