Spring is a time of new beginnings and new life.
Eastern tiger swallowtail
As many folks celebrated Mother’s Day this past Sunday, I was reminded of woodland mothers and their youngsters that were starting to fill the forests and fields in the region.
Unfortunately, for some of the mothers and youngsters, life didn’t get off to a good start.
On Mother’s Day, Skye's Spirit Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Harrisville posted on its Facebook page that it was helping some precious little opossums whose mother had passed away.
Sadly, spring is a very busy time for wildlife rehab centers as human and pet interactions with young wildlife can have disastrous consequences.
Unfortunately, for some of the mothers and youngsters, life didn’t get off to a good start.
On Mother’s Day, Skye's Spirit Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Harrisville posted on its Facebook page that it was helping some precious little opossums whose mother had passed away.
Sadly, spring is a very busy time for wildlife rehab centers as human and pet interactions with young wildlife can have disastrous consequences.
Canada geese
From baby birds to baby bunnies, two regional rescues, Skye’s Spirit and Tamarack Wildlife Center in Saegertown, have their hands and centers full of critters needing aid.
Tamarack Wildlife Center explained in a Facebook post earlier this month that not all seemly “abandoned” youngsters have been forsaken by their mothers.
“With so many rabbits born this time of year, it's important to know the difference between a rabbit that needs help and a rabbit that doesn't. Keeping healthy wild families together is best for all involved, rabbits and humans alike,” the center said. “To avoid attracting predators to their babies, mother rabbits return to their only nest 1-2 times daily, usually at night. Once a young rabbit is fully furred, with open eyes, and larger than a baseball, it is independent. Rabbits grow up quickly, leaving the nest after just 4-5 weeks,” the post continued.
Tamarack Wildlife Center explained in a Facebook post earlier this month that not all seemly “abandoned” youngsters have been forsaken by their mothers.
“With so many rabbits born this time of year, it's important to know the difference between a rabbit that needs help and a rabbit that doesn't. Keeping healthy wild families together is best for all involved, rabbits and humans alike,” the center said. “To avoid attracting predators to their babies, mother rabbits return to their only nest 1-2 times daily, usually at night. Once a young rabbit is fully furred, with open eyes, and larger than a baseball, it is independent. Rabbits grow up quickly, leaving the nest after just 4-5 weeks,” the post continued.
Downy woodpecker
| The center said that if a rabbit of any age has a visible injury, is bleeding, has been in the mouth of a dog or cat, or is very cold or wet, then admission to a wildlife rehabilitator should be arranged. “Caring for young rabbits requires a quiet, dark, and calm space, as rabbits are very susceptible to stress. Specialized species-specific formulas that cannot be replicated at home must be carefully tube-fed to rabbits until they are old enough to forage for solid vegetation. We love watching these sweet youngsters grow up and return to the wild where they belong, The post concluded. Skye’s Spirit offered advice on bird nestlings in a post on its Facebook page. “So, so many baby starlings … some were found grounded, and some were found in an RV that was moved from a couple hours away. If you don't see injuries and you can get the babies back into the nest that's the best thing to do. Human scent is everywhere, and it doesn't bother wildlife if you've touched it to put it back. Also make sure you check RVs, trailers, or any vehicle that hasn't moved in a while … it may be the perfect place for a bird to make a nest….” The post said. Meanwhile both rehab centers had posted that showed they weren’t there to just help the warm and fuzzies. Both had admissions of the cold-blooded kind. “While I don't take too many frogs, our dear friend … found these two frogs hit by cars in the road with leg and mouth injuries ... Thankfully amphibians heal pretty well from many things, and they are both doing fantastic!” Skye’s Spirit said in a Facebook post. Tamarack posted about its recent aid to a water snake. “Warmer weather doesn't just make humans happy, it is also welcomed and enjoyed by reptiles awaking from their winter brumations. Roadways and sidewalks often trap heat and become comfortable, although unsafe, places for reptiles to bask. (a) gorgeous female Northern Water Snake was clipped by a car and was brought to Tamarack by a caring individual.,” the center said. “An initial exam, including x-rays, confirmed that she did sustain mild head trauma but was otherwise healthy and very feisty. After a few weeks of supportive care, she was released back to the wild,” the post continued. While animals, both warm- and cold-blooded, received help from the centers, the centers could use help from folks to keep their rehab efforts afloat. Folks can donate to Skye’s Spirit Wildlife Rehabilitation Center through PayPal to [email protected], or by mailing the center at Skye's Spirit Wildlife Rehabilitation Center 889 Farren Surrena Road Harrisville, PA 16038. The center can be reached by phone at (814) 786-9677. Donations to Tamarack Wildlife Center can be made through its website at tamarackwildlife.org. The center can be reached by phone at (814) 763-2574. |      |
Sadie and Gus Meanwhile, in my neck of the woods I needed to be vigilant for the woodland mothers and their offspring. I searched for young wildlife photos but was at a loss. My canine walking companions meant I kept a distance from any location where vulnerable young ones could be disturbed.
Again, a pair of Canada geese tried to nest at the neighbor’s pond, but the attempt ended in failure.
In the woods, several of the area does were caught on camera with very round stomachs. A variety of posts on Facebook pages throughout the state had shown that some mama does already had fawns by their sides.
Again, a pair of Canada geese tried to nest at the neighbor’s pond, but the attempt ended in failure.
In the woods, several of the area does were caught on camera with very round stomachs. A variety of posts on Facebook pages throughout the state had shown that some mama does already had fawns by their sides.
Nonetheless, the area bachelor bucks were starting to grow some head gear.
A lone hen turkey was also spotted on camera. I surmised that she possibly had a nest in the area.
A lone hen turkey was also spotted on camera. I surmised that she possibly had a nest in the area.
Lady slipper orchids
As new life filled the woods in terms of flora and fauna, I was reminded that sometimes a little help is needed to get a good start in life. That’s just the nature of things ‘round here.
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