They say that too much kindness can kill.

And in that’s absolutely true in the Florida Keys when it comes to the region’s wildlife.

In the Lower Keys, tiny Key deer roam on Big Pine Key and neighboring islands in the National Key Deer Refuge. But although they are incredibly cute and many are easily approachable, it is not appropriate to feed them.

Why? Because feeding normally occurs along the edge of the road, putting the deer at risk of getting struck by a car. Regular feeding can also cause the deer to congregate making them susceptible to spread of disease and poaching.

The same applies to other species in the Keys.

Recently, a group of environmental organizations, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, released an animated public service announcement that preaches the importance of not feeding wild dolphins.

The PSA speaks directly to visitors who might encounter the gentle marine mammals while swimming, snorkeling or fishing. Although they’re truly wonderful to watch, feeding them is not just illegal — it’s harmful to the dolphins. It alters their diets, interferes with their natural role as hunters, and can result in dolphin injuries if they venture too close to boats looking for handouts.

Merina, the dolphin

An almost three-year project, the PSA was created by Tinsley Advertising, the Keys tourism council’s marketing agency. Tinsley art director Dorn Martell coordinated videotaping of Merina the dolphin as a model for animators. Merina, a 20-something dolphin, was born at and lives at Dolphin Research Center in Marathon and has plenty of film experience.

To learn how to behave responsibly when encountering wild dolphins, visit www.dontfeedwilddolphins.org.

The site’s resources include a downloadable Dolphin SMART brochure, tips for fishermen and a variety of valuable FAQs.