Leave Chicks in the Location Found

Wyoming Game and Fish Department Public Information Specialist Christina Schmidt said many bird species have already hatched chicks and others will follow in the coming weeks. If you come across a baby bird out of a nest, please leave it. 

Schmidt said this happens as little ones learn to fly and mom is usually nearby keeping an eye and providing food. 

C. Schmidt 

Schmidt said this is a good conversation to have with children who may find a lone animal and assume it is ‘orphaned’. Children want to help and often feel they need to intervene. Schmidt said there are ways kids can help, but picking the chick up or moving the chick can lead to bigger problems. 

C. Schmidt 

If children bring home a wild and young bird or animal, parents and guardians should immediately return it to the exact spot it was found. 

In the rare instance when a larger animal, such as a fawn, is found and the mother is known to be dead, contact the nearest game warden, biologist or Game and Fish Regional Office. Do not attempt to capture these animals yourself, the mother may be alive and might defend her young should you approach. 

Note the location and contact the Sheridan Regional Office at (307) 777-4600.