How to Help Injured or Orphaned Wildlife: What You Should and Shouldn’t Do

Encountering injured or orphaned wildlife can be a heart-wrenching experience. Our instinct is often to help, but it’s crucial to know the right steps to take to ensure the best outcome for the animal. This guide will walk you through what you should and shouldn’t do when you come across wildlife in need.

Understanding When to Intervene

Before taking any action, it’s important to assess whether intervention is necessary. Many animals that appear to be orphaned or injured are actually in the process of normal development or are being cared for by their parents.

Leave Wildlife Be

One of the most important things to remember is that not all wildlife needs our help. Here are some common scenarios where leaving the animal alone is the best course of action:

Fawns Left Alone by Their Mothers

It’s common to find fawns (baby deer) alone, especially during the spring and summer months. Mother deer, or does, often leave their fawns hidden in tall grass or brush while they forage for food. This behavior helps protect the fawn from predators, as the mother’s presence can attract unwanted attention. Unless the fawn is visibly injured or in immediate danger, it’s best to leave it alone. The mother will return periodically to nurse and check on her young.

Young Fledglings Out of the Nest

Fledglings, or young birds that have left the nest but are not yet fully capable of flying, are often found on the ground. This is a normal part of their development. Parent birds continue to feed and care for fledglings even after they leave the nest. If you find a fledgling, observe from a distance to ensure the parents are nearby. Only intervene if the fledgling is in immediate danger from predators or other hazards.

Assessing the Situation

When you come across an animal that appears to be in distress, take a moment to assess the situation:

• Look for Signs of Injury: Visible wounds, bleeding, or broken limbs are clear indicators that the animal needs help.

• Observe Behavior: An animal that is shivering, lethargic, or crying out for extended periods may be in distress.

• Check for Deceased Parents: If you find a young animal near a deceased adult, it may be orphaned and in need of assistance.

What to Do If You Find an Injured or Orphaned Animal

If you determine that an animal needs help, follow these steps:

1. Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator

The best course of action is to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. These professionals have the training and resources to care for injured or orphaned wildlife properly. You can find a local rehabilitator by searching online or contacting your state’s wildlife agency.

2. Minimize Handling

If you need to move the animal, handle it as little as possible to reduce stress and the risk of injury. Use gloves or a towel to gently pick up the animal and place it in a secure container with ventilation holes.

3. Keep the Animal Safe

Place the container in a quiet, dark place away from pets and children. Do not attempt to feed or give water to the animal unless instructed by a wildlife rehabilitator, as improper feeding can cause harm.

Common Myths and Misconceptions

There are several myths about helping wildlife that can lead to unintended harm:

• Myth: Touching a Baby Bird Will Cause Its Parents to Abandon It: Birds have a limited sense of smell and will not abandon their young if touched by humans.

• Myth: All Orphaned Animals Need Immediate Rescue: Many young animals are left alone for extended periods as part of their normal development. Always observe from a distance before intervening.

Specific Scenarios and What to Do

Baby Birds

• Nestlings: If you find a nestling (a baby bird without feathers or with very few feathers), try to locate the nest and place the bird back in it. If the nest is unreachable or destroyed, create a makeshift nest and place it nearby.

• Fledglings: As mentioned earlier, fledglings should be left alone unless they are in immediate danger. If necessary, move them to a safer location nearby.

Small Mammals

• Rabbits and Squirrels: If you find a nest of baby rabbits or squirrels, leave them alone unless they are visibly injured or the mother is confirmed dead. Mothers often leave their young alone for long periods of time.

Larger Mammals

• Deer Fawns: As discussed, leave fawns alone unless they are injured or in immediate danger. If you are unsure, observe from a distance and contact a wildlife rehabilitator for advice.

Preventing Wildlife Injuries

Preventing injuries to wildlife is just as important as knowing how to help them. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of wildlife injuries:

• Secure Trash and Food Sources: Keep trash cans tightly sealed and avoid leaving pet food outside.

• Use Wildlife-Friendly Fencing: Install fencing that allows small animals to pass through but keeps larger animals out of dangerous areas.

• Drive Carefully: Be vigilant when driving, especially in areas known for wildlife crossings.

Conclusion

Helping injured or orphaned wildlife requires careful consideration and the right approach. By understanding when to intervene and when to leave wildlife alone, you can ensure the best possible outcome for these animals. Always contact a professional wildlife rehabilitator for guidance and support. Remember, sometimes the best way to help is to let nature take its course.