Little Wonders: How to Spot and Safely Enjoy Springtime Baby Animals

Photo by David Wirzba on Unsplash

Spring is a magical time in London, Ontario, as the natural world awakens and many animals welcome new life. For young explorers, spotting baby animals like goslings, ducklings, and fawns is a thrilling experience. However, it's important to enjoy these sightings responsibly to ensure the safety of both the wildlife and our children. Here’s a guide to help your Wild Child spot and safely enjoy baby animals during their springtime adventures.

1. Where to Look

Baby animals are often found in parks, near water bodies, and sometimes even in urban areas. Canada geese, for example, are commonly seen in grassy fields near lakes or ponds. Their goslings are adorable and fluffy, typically following closely behind their parents. Be on the lookout for nests or families of ducks and geese during early to mid-spring.

2. Keep a Respectful Distance

It’s crucial to maintain a safe distance from wildlife, especially during the spring when mother animals are protective of their young. Teach children to use their "nature eyes" to observe from afar rather than approaching or attempting to touch the animals. Binoculars can be a great tool for little ones to get a closer look without disturbing the animals’ natural behaviors.

3. Do Not Feed the Animals

While it might be tempting to feed the cute baby animals, human food can be harmful to wildlife and encourage them to become dependent on people for food. Explain to children why feeding wildlife can disrupt their natural diet and foraging habits, and how it's best to observe them enjoying their natural foods.

Photo by Mathew Schwartz on Unsplash

4. Quiet Observation

Teach children the importance of being quiet and calm around wildlife. Loud noises and sudden movements can startle animals, potentially causing stress or separation from their families. Encourage your child to speak softly and move slowly, turning the experience into a fun stealth game.

5. Learn Together

Use baby animal sightings as an opportunity to learn more about the species. Before heading out, read books or watch educational videos about the animals you might see. After observing them, discuss what you've learned and how it relates to the behavior observed. This enhances the educational value of the experience and reinforces respect for nature.

6. Capture the Moment Safely

Photography can be a wonderful way to preserve memories of wildlife sightings without interfering with their environment. Teach your child how to take photos from a distance. This not only provides a safe interaction but also helps children develop an appreciation for wildlife photography and the patience it requires.

7. Leave No Trace

When exploring nature, always follow the principles of "Leave No Trace." This means taking all your belongings with you, staying on designated paths to avoid disturbing habitats, and leaving plants, rocks, and other natural elements as you found them.

Springtime outings are a wonderful way to introduce children to the wonders of the natural world. By teaching them how to responsibly observe and appreciate baby animals, we can foster a lifelong love and respect for wildlife. Happy exploring, Wild Child adventurers!