While in the backyard or on a walk, you may notice a baby animal that looks in need of help. But in most cases, the best course of action is to do nothing.

As Arizona enters the summer months, baby birds and mammals are beginning to explore their surroundings, which means they can occasionally separate from their mother.

However, it is likely that mom is nearby, and removing the animal from its habitat could be detrimental.

Kellie Tharp is with the Arizona Game and Fish Department. She says this time of year represents the peak months of young animal development.

"We always like to say, 'let's keep wildlife wild,'" Tharp said. "We want this wildlife to grow up in the wild rather than having to go into captivity or go into a foster parent situation at a wildlife rehabilitator.”

While Arizona is lucky to have dozens of wildlife rehabilitation centers, they need to avoid unnecessary captivity and overcrowding.