Found an Injured Juvenile Wild Animal?

Does This Baby Animal Need Help?

Many juvenile wild animals found alone are not in danger. Young wildlife naturally spend time on the ground or away from their parents as part of their normal development. Removing them from the wild can do more harm than good.

Before you act, ask yourself: Is the animal visibly injured? Is it in immediate danger from people, traffic, or pets? If the answer is no, the best thing you can do is observe from a distance and leave it alone.

Signs A Juvenile Animal Needs Help

A juvenile animal may need rescue if it is:

• Bleeding, shivering, or unresponsive
• Found after a cat or dog attack
• Covered in insects or flies
• Crying continuously for several hours
• Found near a dead parent
• Visibly thin with loose, wrinkly skin

If any of these apply, do not attempt to care for the animal yourself. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately.

What NOT To Do

Do NOT feed the animal.

Feeding the wrong diet, even with good intentions, can cause serious harm or death. Do not offer food unless a rehabilitator specifically instructs you to do so.

Do NOT keep the animal.

In most regions it is illegal to possess wild animals without a permit. Keeping a juvenile animal, even temporarily, can disrupt its development and reduce its chances of surviving in the wild.

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 

What to Do While You Wait for Help

Wear gloves or use a cloth to gently pick up the animal.

2.     Place it in a secure, ventilated container lined with a soft cloth.

3.     Keep it in a warm, dark, quiet place away from pets and children.

4.     Do not give food. Offer a shallow dish of water only if the animal can stand on its own.

5.     Note exactly where and how you found it.

6.     Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible.

Juvenile Animal Guides by Species

Not sure what kind of animal you found? Select your region below for specific guidance.

Examples of Common Juvenile Animal Species You May Encounter:

Baby Birds

• Baby Songbird
• Baby Duck or Goose

Baby Small Mammals

• Baby Rabbit
• Baby Squirrel
• Baby Opossum
• Baby Scrub Hare
• Fox Cub
• Hedgehog
• Coypu

Baby Large Animals

• Deer Fawn
• Pudú
• Solitary Antelope
• Herd Antelope
• Elephants and Rhinos

When in Doubt, Call a Professional

Wildlife rehabilitators are trained to assess whether an animal needs help. Do not wait if you are unsure.