As flooding continues across much of North America during 2011, humans are increasingly encountering wildlife that has been displaced by flood waters.
In the U.S., federal and state wildlife agencies have been actively reminding citizens to be aware of wildlife displaced by recent floods. According to biologists, wildlife should be left alone during these distressing times to avoid endangering themselves and further stressing the animals.
“The best strategy for humans is to leave these animals alone and just allow the waters to return to normal and the animals to do the same,” said Paul Peditto, director of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Wildlife and Heritage Service.
Although some animals will be temporarily displaced until the water recedes in flooded areas, most types of wildlife are capable of swimming and will quickly seek shelter or a place to rest on higher ground.