Wildlife Rescue on Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana

​Simonton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana, is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, fish, mammals, and aquatic species that depend on the lake and its surrounding habitat for survival. From ducks and geese to turtles, muskrats, and occasional deer or pets that wander onto the ice, wildlife rescue plays an important role in protecting both animals and the community. Understanding how wildlife rescue works—and what residents should do when an animal is in distress—helps ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Common Wildlife Emergencies on Simonton Lake
Wildlife rescue situations around Simonton Lake occur throughout the year but are especially common during seasonal transitions. In winter, animals may fall through thin ice, become hypothermic, or become trapped near aerators and open water. In spring and summer, injured birds, tangled fishing line, boat strikes, and orphaned animals are more frequently reported.
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Common rescue calls include:

• Ducks, geese, or swans stranded on ice or in freezing water
• Animals caught in fishing line, hooks, or netting
• Injured turtles or waterfowl struck by boats
• Muskrats or raccoons trapped in shoreline debris
• Domestic pets that wander onto unsafe ice

Who Handles Wildlife RescueWildlife rescue on Simonton Lake is typically handled by a combination of Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) conservation officers, local animal control, and licensed wildlife rehabilitators. These professionals are trained to safely capture, treat, and release wild animals in accordance with Indiana law.  Residents should never attempt to rescue wild animals on their own. Handling wildlife without training can result in injury to both the person and the animal, and it may also be illegal. Even well-meaning attempts can increase stress, worsen injuries, or put people at risk—especially on unstable ice.

What to Do If You See an Animal in Distress
If you encounter a wildlife emergency on Simonton Lake, follow these steps:

1. Do not approach or chase the animal. Keep a safe distance and observe behavior.
2. Never go onto thin or questionable ice, even to save an animal. Ice conditions can change rapidly due to currents, springs, and aerators.
3. Call the appropriate authorities, such as the Indiana DNR, Elkhart County Animal Control, or local law enforcement.
4. Provide clear details, including location, type of animal, and visible injuries.
5. Keep people and pets away from the area until help arrives.

Quick reporting gives trained responders the best chance to help.

Prevention and Community Responsibility
Preventing wildlife emergencies is just as important as responding to them. Residents and visitors can help by:

• Never feeding ducks or geese, which encourages unsafe behavior near roads and thin ice
• Properly disposing of fishing line and tackle
• Keeping pets leashed near shorelines
• Respecting wildlife nesting and resting areas
• Supporting local conservation and lake management efforts

The Simonton Lake community plays a vital role in protecting the animals that call the lake home.

A Shared Commitment to Safety and Conservation
Wildlife rescue on Simonton Lake reflects a shared commitment to compassion, safety, and environmental stewardship. By knowing when to call for help—and when to step back—residents help ensure that animals receive proper care while keeping people safe. Working together with trained professionals, the Simonton Lake community helps preserve the lake’s natural balance for generations to come.