Although spring has only made a tentative appearance in Saskatchewan, the wildlife in the province is bustling with life. 

During this time of year, many animals leave their young alone for long periods while they forage for food, or to protect them from predators.  

Ted Glass, Conservation Officer with Provincial Protective Services, a branch of the Ministry of Corrections Policing and Public Safety, said this could leave young wildlife vulnerable to children, pets, or even well-intentioned adults. 

“I want to stress that leaving the animal alone and letting nature take care of nature is the primary message,” he stated. “There's going to be occasions where you're going to see wildlife and you'll think that it's in their best interest to move them or you're thinking that they've been abandoned or lost, and in most cases, that's simply not true. In most cases, that mum has just left the animal baby there to protect it from predators while it goes to feed, and the mum will be back. And in 99 percent of the instances that is truly what's happened.” 

Glass added that there are a few signs people can look for when stumbling across young wildlife, to see if they may be in need of assistance. 

“If you see that animal and it's been 10 hours, it's been two days you start seeing that the animal is suffering perhaps covered in insects, perhaps soaking wet, perhaps someplace where it just can't stay in the middle of a roadway on top of your squad.

Off things like that if you can give the conservation officer in your area phone call again using our one 800 number or directly to the Conservation Office.” 

The animals may be carriers of disease, so bringing them into your house or around your pets is never a good idea. 

He also noted that if the animal is in a dangerous position, you can gently move them to the side of the road or somewhere safe where their mom is able to locate them.

Residents can call 1-800-567-4224 or on SaskTel mobility #5555 to be connected to a conservation officer who can assist them. 

In addition, Glass says it's their goal to take care of the people of Saskatchewan and take care of the wildlife in Saskatchewan.