Wildlife Center of The Hamptons: Brush Fire May Cause Displaced Wildlife

A day after the was extinguished, displaced wildlife has become a concern, according to the Suffolk County SPCA, which is urging drivers to use caution near the wildfire areas and near large brush fires.

"These animals are suffering, and are dazed and confused, and might wander into the path of oncoming vehicles," said Roy Gross, chief of the Suffolk SPCA, adding that even normally nocturnal animals might be out during the day because of the fires.

Animals, said Staci Earl, clinic director of The Evelyn Alexander , located in Hampton Bays, will vacate the area as fire approaches, however she said the danger of wildfires, especially during the birthing season, is that animals can't rescue their litters.

"Babies can get left behind if a mother can't get them all out," Earl said and added that mothers also need to be able to find a new site for their young.

Since many mammals are born this month, squirrels and baby fox might have been left behind. Raptors, including owls and hawks, could also be at risk since birds are physically unable to move their young from their nests and would have to abandonthem.

Turtles, who often move too slowly to escape fire, are hibernating beneath the ground and could be safe, Earl said.

Although no wildlife has been brought in to her facility yet, Earl urged residents to call the Wildlife Rescue Center if any wildlife is found.