Does it need help?

If you find a wild animal that you believe may need help, please do not immediately touch, move, or take the animal. Many baby animals appear to be abandoned when they are actually perfectly healthy. Their mother may only return a few times a day to feed them or may be hiding nearby waiting for people to leave.

Mark or save the animal’s exact location and observe from a safe distance. If possible, take a photo or video without disturbing the animal. This information can help a wildlife rehabilitator determine whether intervention is truly necessary.

If the animal is visibly injured, bleeding, unable to move normally, has been caught by a cat or dog, or is in immediate danger, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator right away for instructions.

Please do not attempt to feed, give water to, or care for wildlife without professional guidance. The wrong food, handling, or care can unintentionally cause serious harm.

When in doubt, call before you intervene. Sometimes the best way to help wildlife is simply to give them space and allow their parents to continue caring for them.