With spring in full bloom, New Yorkers are hitting parks and backyards, coming face-to-face with nature’s youngsters – but wildlife experts are sending a clear message: keep your hands to yourselves. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has issued a warning that well-meaning interventions with what seem like abandoned baby animals can be harmful, illegal without a permit, and usually unnecessary, as these creatures are often in the watchful eye of their parents who are nearby searching for food.

Meredith Longoria, TPWD’s Wildlife Division Deputy Director said, “Most of the time, young wildlife is not abandoned but simply staying in a safe space while their parents search for food,” emphasizing the importance of leaving these creatures be unless they’re visibly injured, which might not always be the case, because their mottled coats and attentive moms usually protect fawns from predators, and despite the natural urge to assist these animals, human interference is often detrimental to their well-being, according to TPWD.

It’s bird and deer season, and locals might mistake the sight of a lone fawn or a grounded bird as a cry for help. However, these animals are usually undergoing natural developmental milestones under the close supervision of their parents. Experts recommend observing from a distance before taking any action and highlight that the best thing to do is nothing at all, as parental care is often just out of sight.

For those encountering what appears to be sick or injured wildlife, TPWD advises contacting a permitted wildlife rehabilitator, advising strongly against handling or attempting to transport injured, sick, or orphaned wildlife themselves, as per TPWD.