Wildlife in Ohio

The beginning of spring brings us sunny days, green on the leaves, blooming flowers, and baby animals abound. In the last two weeks alone our hospital has fielded roughly a dozen phone calls regarding baby deer that appear abandoned, baby birds falling out of nests, and turtles found in the road- just to name a few. 

So, what should you do in these situations? As recommended by the Ohio Division of Wildlife: you should leave young wildlife in the wild. (Blog post.)

Aside from moving a turtle out of a busy road (make sure it isn't a snapping turtle!) you should always leave baby wild animals where you found them. Often, and especially in the case of deer, mom leaves them in order to look for food or to distract predators as baby deer naturally do not have a scent. Mom will return in the evenings and overnight, where you will likely not see her attending to her young. 

If you are concerned the situation is an emergency you should still do your best to not intercede, and instead contact one of the following organizations for advice:

The Ohio Division of Natural Resources- Wildlife Division
District 5 (Includes Clermont and Brown counties)
(934)372-9261

The Ohio Wildlife Rehabilitators Association

Clermont County Wildlife Officer (Link to statewide list)
Gus Kiebel

(937) 372-5639 x5209


White-tailed deer, raccoons, rabbits, squirrels, baby birds, and turtles are the most commonly encountered wildlife in our area. If they are taken from the wild, there is a 90% chance they will not survive. Their best chance for survival is with their mother, and more likely than not she is around and you just can't see her. It is also illegal to possess or keep any wild animal in Ohio without the appropriate licensing. This is to protect wild animal populations and to protect you from disease and injury. 

If you'd like a brochure from the Ohio Division of Wildlife to keep at home simply stop by our office to pick one up! And, as always, feel free to give us a call directly at (513)553-9954 with any questions you may have regarding wildlife and your own pets.

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8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-3:00 pm

Thursday:

7:30 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

7:30 am-12:30 pm

2:00 pm-5:00 pm

Saturday:

8:00 am-1:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

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