Wildlife is all around us. As human populations increase, we are coming in contact with wildlife more and more. Many animals hope for survival hinges on their ability to adapt and to learn to live with us. Tolerance and understanding can offer the most rewarding learning experiences. Remember, we are all just trying to make […]
Always make sure that an animal is actually in need before intervening; please refer back to the Wildlife 911 section for more details. If a rescue is needed remember that safety should be a priority both for you and the animal. NEVER put your personal safety at risk to rescue an animal. Always approach wild […]
Saskatchewan is home to 10 species of snakes, 2 turtles, 1 lizard, 2 Salamanders, 3 frog and 3 toad species. With the exception of the Prairie Rattlesnake in the extreme south of the province, none are dangerous. LEFT: Plains Gartersnakes removed from a home near Regina. Calls about injured reptiles and amphibians are quite rare. […]
IMPORTANT – Rabies vector species should never be handled without gloves. A bat flying around in the daytime or banging into things, or unable to fly is a sign something could be wrong. Call the WRSOS hotline for advice regarding rabies vector species. Bats On The Ground LEFT: Image courtesy of Kayla Hatzel There are […]
Porcupine injured in dog attack – photo courtesy Lakelyn Wylie Adult Mammals Important – Caution should be taken with all rabies vector species. Animals that are exhibiting unusual behaviours such as too tame or friendly, aggressive, dumb – banging into things, wandering around in public or out when they should be sleeping should not be […]
The first thing to do when you think you have found an orphaned baby mammal is to be patient! Keep an eye on it at a safe and unthreatening distance for a few hours for the mother to return. Many animals will leave their young periodically for their own protection or to feed. Call the […]
Mallard sitting on a nest at a Home Depot Garden Centre. It is very common for Mallard Ducks to nest in Saskatchewan’s urban areas and they are frequently found nesting in people’s back yards. A duck’s nests consist of a shallow depression lined with grass, down and twigs. Normal nesting behaviour is […]
In Saskatchewan, most “bunnies” are actually Hares. Hares are born fully furred and become mobile shortly after birth. Normal Behaviour: Spend 3 – 4 weeks moving around to different hiding places. Mothers “don’t keep all their eggs in one basket” and will spread their babies around several nearby areas or yards to ensure a greater […]
Normal Behaviour: Fawns are born without scent. The doe will stay away from her fawn so she does not attract a predator with her scent. A Fawn’s defence strategy is to lie very still for long periods while waiting for the return of their mothers. Their spots offer it great camouflage while hiding in the […]
Some reasons a bird may be unable to fly are: Injured or sick Fledgling (see fledgling icon for more information on this) Window strikes Electrocution Hunting “misses” Species of bird – some species are unable to take flight from land Loon with fishhook embedded in throat. Signs a bird may be injured or sick: Blood, […]