WVDNR Advises People to Leave Young Wildlife Alone - Beckley, Bluefield & Lewisburg News, Weather, Sports

WVDNR Advises People to Leave Young Wildlife Alone

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CHARLESTON -

The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) advises people to leave young wildlife alone, according to a news release from W.Va. DNR.

"The spring season is the time of year when the woods and fields of West Virginia are full of new life," said Gene Thorn, wildlife biologist at the West Virginia State Wildlife Center in French Creek. "People have a great opportunity to view and enjoy young wildlife during this season, but it is especially important for the public to understand the need to avoid touching or disturbing these wild animals."

Picking up or getting too close to wildlife greatly increases the chance of harming the animal and/or the persons involved, DNR officials said.

"In addition to being detrimental to the welfare of young animals, handling wildlife can expose humans to various wildlife-associated diseases, parasites and other health-related risks," said Thorn. "Rabies, roundworms and other parasites such as lice and ticks can be transmitted to humans through the improper handling of wildlife."

State laws prohibit the possession of wildlife without a permit. DNR officials said under any circumstances, when someone picks up a young animal in the wild they have taken it into their possession.

The fines for illegal possession of a fawn deer, black bear cub, baby raccoon, squirrel or any other species taken or possessed during the closed season range from $20 to a maximum of $1,000 and/or up to 100 days in jail, according to the news release.