See Young Wildlife? Leave It Alone, Galloway Police Say

GALLOWAY, NJ — In the spring and summer months, it's not unusual to see young wildlife around Galloway. However, if you see what appears to be sick, injured or orphaned wildlife, Galloway police urge you to leave it alone.

Often, if you see young animals that appear to be abandoned, the mother is nearby, Galloway police said. Many "well-intentioned" people try to "save" the wildlife, but police insist residents leave the animals undisturbed.

"If you find a young fawn laying alone, leave it where it is," Galloway police said on Facebook. When fawns are young, they may not be strong enough to walk by themselves. Their moms leave them alone while they feed and explore, returning several times a day to nurse the fawn.

If you have picked the fawn up and brought it home, Galloway police say to put it back. Fawns are able to reunite with their mothers if they are placed in the same spot. Fawns are generally safe alone because their color pattern and lack of scent keeps them hidden, police said.

Galloway police also remind residents that it is illegal to attempt to keep wild animals as pets in New Jersey.

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