By Chantel Lott

MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Injured or seemingly abandoned baby animals may tug at heart strings, but wildlife specialists encourage people to resist the temptation to become the babies' surrogate mother.

"Many times we find wild baby animals alone in our yard or in the surrounding woods and presume them to be abandoned, but actually these animals are generally being taken care of just as they should be," said Dean Stewart, Extension associate with Mississippi State University's Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

Baby birds in the fledgling process may drop to the ground, or a baby deer, or fawn, may be hidden by its mother near trees or in tall grass. The mothers may not be visible, but are often nearby and will continue caring for their babies.

It is illegal to keep a wild animal in captivity in Mississippi for several reasons according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. One is that proper care for a wild animal cannot be given by most people. Both the animal and the care giver are susceptible to diseases from one another. There have also been instances where people have been severely injured and sometimes killed by a captive buck deer.

"In the past some permits to house a wild animal have been given out through the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, but since October 1988 any possession of live game or fur-bearing animals is prohibited by state law," said Maj. Steve Adcock of the Enforcement Division of Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks in Jackson.

Wild animals are difficult to raise in captivity, even if found at a very young age. Natural instincts do not disappear in a captivity, including the self-preserving fear of humans.

"Buck deer, especially, are known for becoming very aggressive when they mature and develop hardened antlers, even to those who have cared for them since birth," Stewart said.

Another factor is that diseases that can threaten humans are common among wild animals. Rabies is one example. There are few effective vaccines for animals to combat many of these diseases. Fur-bearing animals, like racoons, foxes and skunks commonly carry rabies.

Disease is also detrimental to the wildlife. Should the owners of the wild animal tire of the responsibility and release the animal back into the wild, it can spread a disease contracted by human interaction to other wildlife.

Alternatives exist to taking a wild animal home that still enable one to provide care for a wounded or crippled animal. Contact a wildlife conservation officer for advice. If the animal's need for assistance is crucial, transport the animal to a veterinarian.

"Most animals can be enjoyed through alternative activities. Develop backyard habitats by planting specific shrubs or trees for birds and other animals. Bird-watching, visiting parks, wildlife management areas, and national refuges all offer opportunities to learn about and enjoy wildlife without jeopardizing the livelihood of the animals," Stewart said.

This time of year, many hunters and anglers take to the woods and waters to participate in consumptive use of these wild and wonderful resources.