MAINE, USA — Although it might not feel like it after snow and ice pummeled the state last weekend, it's officially springtime in Maine.
This means wild baby animals are crawling out of their dens and possibly into view.
The South Portland Police Department posted on Facebook some advice on what to do if you see wildlife wandering alone.
From March until June, police said animals including squirrels, foxes, raccoons, groundhogs, skunks, bats, and opossums will be more active in trying to secure food for themselves and their babies.
"Lots of wildlife will leave their babies while they go off and forge [and] hunt. It is a sign when babies are out and about, moving around, and making noise that they aren’t where they should be," police said.
Even though they may be wicked cute, wildlife officials warn against handling wild animals without professional assistance.
If you're concerned about seeing a wildlife baby that appears to be on its own, South Portland police say to reach out to Animal Control Officer Maggie Maxwell for help determining if it needs a little human help, or if the animal is waiting for its mom to come back with lunch.
Officer Maxwell can be reached at 207-799-5511 ext. 7253 or 207-272-1657, or mmaxwell@southportland.org.
The Saco River Wildlife Center told NEWS CENTER Maine what to do if you encounter an injured animal, starting with a call to an animal control officer like Maxwell, or wildlife rehabbers.
If the animal is orphaned and small, the wildlife center's founder Bethany Brown said it can be OK to try and contain the animal by wearing gloves and wrapping it in warm towels to keep it contained.
However, handling injured adult animals and providing food and water is not recommended.
