The state Department of Environmental Conservation is warning St. Lawrence County residents to avoid newborn fawns and other young wildlife with an “If You Care, Leave it There” slogan.

As we enter peak birthing season for North Country wildlife, the DEC says residents should stay at a distance and not disturb newborn fawns or other baby animals.

Young animals, particularly fawns, birds and rabbits, may appear helpless and in need of assistance to the untrained eye, but really aren’t.

Approaching baby animals is generally a mistake and can do more harm than good, the DEC says.

Those that spot a fawn or newborn wildlife can enjoy observing the animal, but should keep the encounter brief and maintain some distance. Never touch the animal, says the DEC.

Some species receive little or no care from their parents, according to the DEC. Parents often stay away from their young, particularly when people are nearby, to avoid drawing a predator’s attention to the youngster.

Most white-tailed fawns are born during late May or early June, the DEC says. Fawns are able to walk shortly after birth, but spend most of their first few days of life lying still. Does generally leave their fawns unsupervised, expect when nursing. Never pick up or touch a fawn; if a doe detects a human’s presence, she may delay her next nursing visit.

Never try to take a wild animal as a pet, as it is illegal and harmful to the animal.

If you find a fawn or other baby animal, “If You Care, Leave It There,” says the DEC.

For more information contact the DEC at www.dec.ny.gov/animals/6956.html.