From the office of the Fairhaven Animal Control Officer
This time of the year there are a lot of baby birds out learning how to fly. Unless you actually see them in danger from other animals please leave them alone. If a baby hawk is brought into a shelter it can never be reintroduced back into the wild.
This young hawk would not be able to return to the wild if captured. Fortunately, the person who took the picture did the right thing and left the hawk alone. Submitted photo.
This young screech owl was attacked by an unknown animal, probably a cat and was turned over to New Engalnd Raptor and Reptile in Taunton. It will, hopefully, heal and be released back into the wild. Submitted photo.
A mother hawk will circle her baby while it is learning to fly. So if you see a young hawk on the ground, do not interfere with it.
Other birds often can be cared for and then reintroduced into the wild, but unless you are sure of what you are doing, please leave them alone.
Also, a lot of people have been alarmed to see foxes roaming about in the daylight. This is normal behavior, not an indication that they are sick.
To learn more about the wildlife you might encounter in your neighborhood and how to respond, visit Mass Wildlife at http://www. mass.gov/eea/agencies/dfg/dfw/fish-wildlife-plants/young-wildlife.html
Remember, young wildlife belongs in the wild. If you care, leave them there.
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