Injured Adult Animal Rescue
Found an Injured Adult Wild Animal?
Before You Touch The Animal
Finding an injured adult wild animal is different from finding a juvenile. Adult animals are stronger, more defensive, and more likely to injure you when scared. Before you do anything, assess the situation from a safe distance.
Remember: any wild animal, even one that appears calm or weak, will try to protect itself when it feels threatened. The most important principle is Do No Harm, to yourself and to the animal.
Animals You Should NOT Attempt to Handle
Do not attempt to handle the following animals without first consulting a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or animal control:
- Snakes of any kind
- Bats
- Adult koalas
- Adult kangaroos and wallabies
- Deer and other hooved animals/ungulates
- Large or dangerous animals of any species
If you are unsure whether the animal is safe to approach, do not approach it. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or local animal control immediately.
Signs an Adult Animal Needs Help
An adult wild animal may need rescue if it is:
- Bleeding, shivering, lethargic, or unresponsive
- Found after an attack by a cat or dog
- Visibly injured with wounds, broken bones, or puncture marks
- Unable to move or fly away after several minutes
- Appearing thin, weak, or disoriented
What to Do While You Wait for Help
If the animal is safe to approach and clearly needs help, follow these steps:
- Find a suitable container such as a cardboard box or pet carrier. Poke air holes in it if needed. Line it with a clean, soft cloth or paper towels.
- Wear gloves or cover your hands with a thick cloth before handling the animal. Place the animal gently into the container.
- Secure the container so the animal cannot escape.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the animal.
- Keep the animal in a warm, dark, and quiet place, away from pets and children. Stress from over-handling can kill.
- Do not offer food. Provide water only if the animal can stand on its own.
- Note exactly where and how you found the animal. This information will help the rehabilitator assess and treat it.
- Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible.
What NOT To Do
Do NOT handle dangerous animals.
Snakes, bats, and large mammals can cause serious injury. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or local animal control before approaching any animal you are unsure about.
Do NOT feed or keep the animal.
Feeding the wrong diet can cause serious harm or death. Keeping a wild animal at home is illegal in most regions without a proper permit.
Do NOT trust random internet advice.
Wildlife care is highly specialized. If a site does not list credentials, permits, or contact information, do not follow its guidance.
For a full guide on the most common wildlife rescue mistakes and how to avoid them, visit our dedicated page.
Learn More: Wildlife Rescue – What Not to Do
Injured Adult Animal Rescue – What Kind of Animal Did You Find?
Not sure where to find help for the animal you found? Select your region below for specific guidance.
Not sure what to do next? We can help.
A licensed wildlife rehabilitator can assess the animal and guide you through the next steps. Do not wait if you are unsure.