Spring is when native wildlife begin emerging from winter slumbers with babies soon to follow. The increased activity means animals and humans are likely to cross paths.

You suddenly have a deer fawn, snake, or bear cub in your backyard — now what?

The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) released guidance on wildlife encounters as they tend to increase this time of year.

Black bears
Bears emerge from their dens in spring. Humans may encounter cubs waiting for the mother to return from foraging. If you believe a cub has been orphaned, don't handle, feed, or remove it. Instead, note the location and contact the N.C. Wildlife Helpline.

Snakes
If you encounter a snake, stay calm and give it plenty of room to move along. If it’s a copperhead, rattlesnake, or Northern pine snake, report it through HerpMapper.org.

Coyotes
Sightings spike in the spring and peak in May.
Tips to protect pets include:

Remove all outdoor pet food, fallen fruit, food waste, and bird feeders.
Keep cats and small dogs on a leash whenever they’re outside.

Rabbits
If a young rabbit is outside its nest — which appears like a patch of dead grass — leave it alone. The mother will likely return when humans are gone.

Deer
Fawns are born closer to late spring and early summer. Mothers intentionally stay away during the day. If you find a fawn, leave it alone. After 48 hours, if the fawn appears thin or hurt, consider calling a licensed fawn rehabilitator for advice.

Songbirds
Chicks hatch throughout the spring. Nestlings don’t have feathers and cannot survive outside of the nest for long. Return nestlings to the nest as quickly as possible, and if the entire nest has fallen, place it back in the tree or make a makeshift nest.