Injured animals should be left alone|[10/03/07]

A rise in the number of people picking up injured animals and bringing them home has wildlife officials steamed and promising to begin levying substantial fines.

“If you see an injured animal on the side of the road, in the woods, wherever, just leave it alone,” said Master Sgt. Charlie Gross of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. “It is against the law to pick it up. Don’t do it. If you see an injured animal, call us. Do not bring the animal to your house.”

Gross said incidents of people bringing animals to their homes and then calling the wildlife department are on the rise.

Fines for harboring illegal wildlife range from $100, and Gross said his department will begin further enforcement of the law.