Enjoy the sight, but leave newborn critters alone

A wildlife population explosion takes place around this time every year.

Wild bird and mammal species typically produce young in the spring and early summer.  This allows the young to have time to gain the strength and size needed to survive the challenges of winter, or the rigors and dangers of fall migration.

Deer, elk and moose will soon give birth to fawns and calves.  Some of these newborns will make it through the perilous first few days and weeks … and others will not.  Fortunately, reproductive potential is high for most wild animal species and despite losses of individuals, populations carry on.

For the rest of the letter, see the print edition of the Bonner County Daily Bee or subscribe to our e-edition.