For many, July 4th means fireworks but for animals the pyrotechnic blasts can mean a deadly threat. And for Joe Rocco and Jackie Roche, founders of The Broken Antler Wildlife Rescue, that is nothing to celebrate.
Their Riverhead organization rescues many wild animals throughout the year. Too often during the summer they are called upon to save mostly injured or orphaned deer. “Honestly, we see more displaced fawns around July 4th going into August,” Joe said, “and if they’re not orphaned they are in situations where they get injured due to panic and stress.”
Among the worst injuries are fawns with broken legs, covered in ticks because the mother, possibly a casualty herself, is not around to care for it. A sick or vulnerable animal is also at risk for fly strike, a potentially deadly condition in which flies lay their eggs on the animal’s body. When the maggots hatch out they feed on the animal. “Those are the ones that look like Swiss cheese,” according to Joe. “The maggots are eating them alive.”
Quick response and medical care are crucial to an animal’s recovery. “If an animal does not get help—because it’s not like they can call 911—it will most likely die from its injuries,” he continued. “As for orphaned wildlife, it is crucial that they have their mother. Without the mother taking care of the baby, whether by cleaning it to rid it of pests like ticks, or nursing, those babies left on their own will slowly deteriorate without immediate help.”
“If you want to go see fireworks, go where they are professionally and safely set off. But when it’s a private backyard show and everybody on the block is doing it it’s basically like the world is ending for every creature that lives there,” he said. “And beyond the animals, what about people that served overseas in combat? They may have PTSD from what they’ve gone through. Now, instead of feeling safe in their own home it sounds like Falluja outside.”
Since 2020, however, many public fireworks displays have been canceled because of the Covid virus, leading to an increase in illegal sales and use. Roman candles, bottle rockets, bombs, skyrockets, sparklers, including those on metal wires and hand held, and firecrackers are illegal in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Violation may include a prison sentence of up to four years and fines.
If you see an injured deer or other wild animal, do not touch it or attempt to care for it yourself. Call a wildlife rescue organization such as The Broken Antler at 631 829-8880, Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue (631 728-4200), STAR Wildlife Rescue 631 736-8207 or the Suffolk County Police 631 852-COPS for assistance.
To report the sale or use of illegal fireworks call 911 or 631 852-COPS; to report prior or continuing sale or use, or to report a tip about potential use or sale call 311.
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