Nature FAQ's

(frequently asked questions)

Can't find an answer to your quesiton?
Email us.

Bats - problems, bat houses, and more

Visit Bat Conservation International as well as the MnDNR's web page on bats.

Are there any poisonous snakes, in the River Bend Nature Center area?

No. While several species of poisonous snakes down in the extreme southeastern corner of Minnesota, along the Mississippi river, none are here. We do have non-poisonous fox snakes, however, that can vibrate their tales and sound like rattlesnakes.

I found a dead bird. Should I report it for West Nile Virus?

After having verified the presence of WNV in the state, the MN Department of Health is no longer seeking reports of dead birds in Minnesota. There is an agency seeking reports in the 7-county metro area, however. For more information, visit the MN Department of Health website.

I found an injured/baby/orphaned/troubled animal. What should I do?

In virtually all cases, River Bend encourages anyone who finds an injured, "orphaned," or baby animal to leave it where found, protect it from children and domestic pets, and let nature take its course (after all, injured, sick, and young animals are all very important in the food chain). Many wild babies, especially deer and rabbits, are often mistaken for being orphaned when ther are not. Wild animals should not be handled with bare hands, treated like pets, given food or water, or taken indoors, except under the direction of a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Visit wildliferehabber.com or wildlife-international.org for good information on specific situations. The Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota is the only real wildlife rehab facility in the area.
Or call 651-486-9453.

If you have found an injured raptor (bird of prey: owls, hawks, eagles, falcons), the University of Minnesota Raptor Center is the only rehabilitation center for these types of birds in the area. Or call 612-624-4745. It is unlawful to possess live or dead raptor specimens.

Animals are digging/burrowing/tunneling in my yard, what can I do?

Visit The University of Minnesota Extension Service for good information on identifying what is doing the digging (it may not be what you think) and then essortment.com for tips on dealing with them.

I'm having problems with rabbits. Any ideas?

Visit the DNR website for good information.

I'm having problems with snakes. How can I keep them away?

Visit the DNR website for good information

Deer are eating everything in my yard. Any suggestions?

Visit The University of Minnesota Extension Service for good information.

Yellow jackets, bees, or wasps swarming your yard?

Check everest.ento.vt.edu to figure out which one you have and how to manage them.

When are the dwarf trout lilies in bloom at River Bend?

They bloom in late April. Check midwest.fws.gov to find out why they're so special!

Does River Bend allow overnight camping?

River Bend only has a campsite for canoers on the Straight River. It is remote and rustic with only a few picnic tables and a fire ring. No access is available by car. For more information, visit our canoe-in campsite page.

Can't find an answer or have a suggestion to add to the list? Let us know by e-mail.