See a hare, leave it there: Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society

It's springthe time of year when the Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society sees a lot of tiny, orphaned baby mammals, like squirrels and hares.

TheHomestretch'sJennyHowegot to visit with some four-week-old baby squirrels, in what can only be described as a cuteness overload.

The baby squirrels are being bottle fed milk using a special formula devised for squirrels. They will be released at about 12-weeks-old.

But on a moreserious note,CWRShas an important message for people: "See a Hare, Leave it There."

Snowshoe and White-tailed Prairie hares are having their babies at this time and CWRS animal care manager Jenna McFarland would like to remind the public that it is normal for baby hares to be found alone. They are not orphaned, so please do not kidnap them, she pleads.

Hares are born fully furred and with their eyes open. They can hop around within hours of birth. It is the strategy of hares to leave their young for long periods of time under bushes and in the grass. This is normal and helps to protect the babies from predators since young hares have no scent,accordingtoCWRS.

Baby hares will freeze when threatened, so it's best to leave them alone. If they're in danger, it's okay to move them to a safe spot close by, where mom can find them by calling out.

However, if you find any animals bleeding or injureddo bring them into the centre. If you are unsure, please phone theCWRSwildlife hotline at 403-239-2488.

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