How To Rescue Wildlife
How To Rescue Wildlife
Before You Act
Finding an injured or orphaned wild animal can feel urgent. Before you act, take a breath. Approaching too quickly or handling the animal incorrectly can cause additional harm, both to the animal and to you.
Every wild animal, even one that appears calm, may bite or scratch when scared. Always prioritize your own safety and handle wildlife as little as possible.
IWRC has been training wildlife rehabilitators and supporting wildlife rescue efforts globally for over 50 years. The steps below follow science-based guidelines used by licensed professionals worldwide.
What You Will Need
Before handling the animal, gather the following:
• A cardboard box or pet carrier with air holes
• A clean, soft cloth or paper towels to line the container
• Gloves or a thick cloth to protect your hands
How to Help an Injured Wild Animal
Follow these steps carefully to minimize stress on the animal and keep yourself safe:
- 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.
- Gently pick up the animal. Wear gloves or cover your hands with a cloth to protect yourself. Place the animal carefully into the container.
- Secure the container so the animal cannot crawl or jump out.
- 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 be fatal.
- Do not offer food. Provide water only if the animal can stand on its own.
- Note exactly where you found the animal and the circumstances in which you found it. This information will help the rehabilitator assess the animal.
- Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible to arrange proper care for the animal.
Important Reminders
Do NOT approach large or dangerous animals.
Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or local animal control before attempting to rescue any animal you are unsure about.
Do NOT give food or milk.
Feeding the wrong diet, even with good intentions, can cause serious harm or death.
Do NOT keep the animal.
In most regions it is illegal to possess a wild animal without a permit. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator immediately.
For a full guide on the most common wildlife rescue mistakes and how to avoid them, visit our dedicated page.
Link: Wildlife Rescue – What NOT To Do
Frequently Asked Questions
Do not attempt to care for it yourself. Place the animal in a secure, ventilated container, keep it in a warm and quiet place, and contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible.
In most regions it is illegal to possess a wild animal without a special permit or license. The only exception is transporting the animal directly to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
Do not offer food. You may offer a shallow dish of water only if the animal is able to stand on its own. Feeding wildlife the wrong diet can cause serious harm or death.
IWRC provides training, certification, and resources for wildlife rehabilitators at every level. Visit our Education page to find out how to get started.
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.