Mother Run Over: Help for Baby Hare "Simon"
In Simonsfeld, Lower Austria, the first baby hare of the year, "Simon," was rescued, the Austrian Animal Welfare Association announced in a press release on Monday. "Simon" is one of the few baby hares with a serious reason for rescue. Often, baby hares that appear to be alone are taken by walkers. However, the mothers are often nearby, explains Alfred Kofler, head of animal care at the Assisi-Hof.
First Baby Hare of the Year Rescued
"Simon" was found in a hayrack in a horse paddock. A dead hare, presumably his mother, was found at the nearby roadside. Simon is now being raised at the Assisi-Hof in Stockerau.
Baby hares need help when the mother, as in the case of "Simon," is found dead nearby or the animal is obviously injured. If the young animal lies motionless on its side on paths or roads or wanders around and is not shy of humans, help is also appropriate. If the hare has been attacked by birds of prey or brought by dogs or cats, it also needs help.
Baby Hares Should Not Be Touched by Humans
Baby hares have no scent of their own, which protects them from predators. If they are touched by humans, they lose this protection and can be put in life-threatening danger. The first days after a rescue are extremely critical for baby hares, as many of the young animals develop digestive problems. "Hare milk is much richer than the milk of conventional mammals. Simon must first get used to the unfamiliar bottle feeding," said Kofler.
If a baby hare is found, it should first be observed before intervening. The safety of the animals can be better ensured by staying on the paths, keeping the dog on a leash, and not touching the young animal.
(APA/Red)
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