How to Determine if a Wild Animal Needs Assistance

So you think that you may have orphaned, injured or displaced wildlife in your yard? Before you pick up the phone to contact Animal Control, observe the animal and gather information. If you do not know who provides animal control service for your town contact your local police or health agency. Please note: NEVER approach or handle a wild animal or bird for your safety and theirs! The following questions are the ones that Animal Control may ask you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Pen or Pencil
• Paper
• Clock or Watch
• Binoculars (Optional)
• Good Observation Skills

1. Identify the exact location and address of the animal in question. For example: 1313 Mockingbird Lane, Birdtown, New York. Located under the large pine tree at the rear of the property.
2. Record how many animals in question are present. If there are juvenile animals is there a mother present?
3. Record a physical description of the animal(s) (even if you're positive it's a raccoon!) What color is it? Fur, Fins or Feathers? Size? Adult or Juvenile?
4. How long have you observed the animal(s) in question at the current location? Days, hours, minutes? This is important to observe and record because certain species of animals will leave their offspring alone for hours on end while hunting for food or so as not to attract predators to them. If you feel an animal is truly in distress it is important to contact your local animal control as soon as possible.
5. Document the animal's actions. What is it currently doing? How is it behaving?
6. Note if there is any obvious injury or illness. For example, blood, broken bones, runny eyes or nose, etc. Is it limping? If it’s a bird or bat can it fly? Are there insects present on or around the animal? Flies, Fleas, Ticks or Maggots. If any of the above is noted please contact animal control immediately!
7. Observe and log: Is the animal vocalizing or is it completely quiet? If vocalizing how so and how frequently?
8. Take note: Are there any other animals in the area? Predators? Parents?

Tips & Warnings

• Once these questions have been answered the Animal Control Officer may decide to have you further continue to observe the animal or they may immediately come out to assess the situation further. Do not become frustrated. By being observant and not approaching the animal you too can help the wildlife in your community!
• NEVER, EVER approach, touch or handle wildlife. This could be hazardous to your health and theirs. Wild animals and birds can carry diseases that could be potentially fatal to humans. If you, someone you know or a domestic pet have been bitten or scratched by a wild animal it is very important to wash the wound with soap and water and to see your doctor immediately. Please make sure your cat or dog always has a current rabies vaccine and never let them interact with wild animals. Please teach children the beauty of the "Look, don't touch" rule when it comes to wild life.