"If you care, leave it there."

Those are the words used by the Department of Environmental Conservation when addressing the bounty of newborn animals that will be seen in the coming weeks.

Officials with the DEC say that although people may see a young fawn or baby bunny who is seemingly alone, people should not come into contact with them.

In many cases, the parent has left the animal alone in an effort to draw attention away from its young. Deer in particular leave their young alone, and only come by to nurse.

The DEC also urges people to not try and keep wild animals as pets, because they are not suited for captivity and may carry diseases.

For more information regarding young animals and DEC protocol, click here.

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