This website is best viewed in a browser that supports web standards.

Skip to content or, if you would rather, Skip to navigation.

Listen Live
Donate
MARYVILLE

KXCV-KRNW


News Brief

May 8, 2025

The Missouri Department of Conservation is reminding the public to leave the wildlife in the wild

The Missouri Department of Conservation is reminding residents that young wildlife found alone in nature are rarely abandoned—and the best action is to leave them be.

Officials say it’s common for people to come across young animals in the spring and assume they’ve been left behind. But in most cases, the parent is nearby and will return once it’s safe.

Missouri Department of Conservation State Wildlife Veterinarian Sherri Russell explains that many animals leave their young temporarily while searching for food. She says, “Parents are normally out searching for food and cannot constantly attend to their offspring.”

Russell also cautions against taking wild animals into your home. Not only can they become dangerous as they grow, but they may also carry parasites or diseases, and can cause damage to property.

The department urges Missourians to "leave wildlife wild" and avoid interfering, even with animals that appear to be in distress. The best help people can offer is often to simply leave them alone.

For more information on Missouri’s native wildlife, visit the online Field Guide at nature.mdc.mo.gov.