Is There a Wild Animal in Need of Assistance?
See our questions and answers for guidance.
I’ve encountered an injured or orphaned wild animal. What should I do?
- Stay calm and call us immediately at (219) 299-8027.
- Wear gloves or use a towel if you have to handle the animal.
- Remember, the animal is just as scared of you as you are of it.
- Do NOT corner the animal in a confined space. Keep all pets and children away from the animal.
I found a baby animal. What is the next step?
- Search for the den or nest. Hollow logs and trees make great nesting sites for many mammals.
- If the parent is still around, leave the area and watch from a distance to see if the parent will retrieve the baby.
- If the parents have not returned, call before removing the animal. Species such as deer and rabbits generally don’t need to be rescued because the parents are watching from a distance.
- I found a baby bird. How should I proceed?
- Search for the nest. Nests can be located in trees, flower pots, or in a bush. Place the baby back in the nest.
- If the bird has most of its feather, let it be. It is a fledgling and is learning to fly. It may take up to five days for the fledgling to leave the ground.
- Bring in all domestic pets and watch from a distance to see if the mother is still feeding.
- Call if it appears to be injured, and before removing the animal.
I found an injured animal. What do I do?
- Attempt to contain the animal in a secure box, kennel or tote with plenty of ventilation.
- Transport to our center immediately.
- If after hours place the animal in a dark, quite, warm location and transport to our center in the morning.
- If a rescue is needed with such species as adult raccoons or raptors, call us immediately to coordinate a rescue.
