Baby animal rescues surge in Boulder County
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Ducklings at Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Photo: Courtesy Greenwood Wildlife
Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center saw a surge in baby animals admitted to its care during the last month of spring.
Why it matters: Wildlife experts feared drought would drive more animal rescues. So far, that's exactly what's happening.
Driving the news: Greenwood spokesperson Mysti Tatro said the wildlife center took in 303 animals this May, a significant increase over the 207 it saw last May.
- On a single day last week alone, the center admitted 45 animals. While Tatro noted there's no such thing as a "typical" day, she said the number was striking because it wasn't tied to a major natural disaster.
State of play: Staff have also noticed a broader mix of animals arriving at the center.
- The center has had baby red foxes, thirteen-lined ground squirrels, wood ducklings and even an opossum — all species less common to the Front Range and that the center does not see regularly.
Zoom in: With the odds of human-wildlife interaction increasing due to drought limiting habitat and resources, residents should be aware of how to handle baby animals.
- Baby animals that appear to be abandoned are often fine, according to Tatro: "Observe the animal from a distance for an extended period. Often, the mother is nearby and will return."
- If a resident is convinced a baby animal needs help, they should contact a licensed wildlife rehab expert before attempting to touch or feed it.
How to help: Baby season is also fundraising season.
- Residents can donate to support Greenwood's wildlife patients.
- And golfers can also hit the links for the nonprofit's "Birdies and Bogeys" fundraiser next week.
Bonus update: Since we are now emotionally invested in the story of the baby fox who needed a stuffed friend, Greenwood was kind enough to provide us a new photo.
