More good reason to trust in nature: Rehabilitators' permits, typically issued by various branches of government, don't allow them to keep animals permanently, only to treat them and care for them until they can be released back into their natural habitats.

And there aren't enough spaces in nature centers or zoos to place even a small percentage — Second Chance in Maryland takes in up to 5,000 animals in a single year.

So the right course in most cases is simply not to intervene when you see a baby animal on its own. Hanging around may actually delay this reunion.

"People have to leave," Reyes says. "They can't be standing over the baby or the parent won't return — even if it sees you standing at the window."

There is an exception to the don't-interfere rule: When a baby is clearly injured, with bleeding or a broken limb, it needs help. Don't feed it. Instead, call a rehabilitator for advice, even before attempting to move it.

Your local animal shelter can usually help you find an expert, or go to the Web site of the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association, www.nwrawildlife.org/home.asp

Generally, the best way to help wildlife is to make your yard a hospitable place: Keep pet cats indoors, plant a wildlife habitat garden, and be careful when you prune, since birds and squirrels could be nesting.