Provincial fish and wildlife officers are asking people to leave potentially injured or orphaned wildlife alone, so as not to further agitate the animals. 

In a release, Blaine Burke, Education/Outreach Officer with Alberta Environment and Parks, said that although concerned residents have good intentions, they could introduce more anxiety to possibly already stressed animals, which creates an unsafe environment for both the animal and the people involved. 

“People shouldn’t be interfering with wildlife. If a mom is gone getting food, a lot of times mom leaves the baby alone, and people don’t realize that’s what nature is, that’s how they do it,” said Burke.  

He said that people should observe an animal for a 24-hour period from a distance, and then contact their local fish and wildlife office for advice instead of intervening themselves. 

Alberta Parks and Environment recommends against bringing an injured animal home to nurse, in most cases it is illegal to possess live wildlife. 

Burke said that they typically get more calls in the spring and summer time. 

“In the spring and in the summer is usually when animals are having their babies and when they’re fending for their food and whatnot.” 

City residents can contact the Grande Prairie Fish and Wildlife office at 780-538-5265. Other contact numbers are available at esrd.alberta.ca. 

...