Press Releases

August 9, 2006
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Michelle Pintar
Phone: (414) 431-6104
E-mail: mpintar@wihumane.org

The How-To Guide of Helping an Injured
or Orphaned Wild Animal

MILWAUKEE – You find a young robin on your porch and think she could be orphaned. That very same day, you discover an adorable rabbit in your backyard that appears to be injured. Do you leave these wild animals alone or attempt to “rescue” them?

The Wisconsin Humane Society recommends the following tips to determine if wildlife needs assistance and what can be done to help.

·   Call your local licensed wildlife rehabilitator for assistance if you see a wild animal exhibiting one or more of the following signs: it was caught by a dog or cat; it has an obvious injury such as a dragging wing, broken limb or it is bleeding; it is an unfurred or unfeathered youngster out of the nest; or it is tangled in materials like fishing line or other man-made material. Individuals who find a wild animal in Milwaukee County that they think is injured or orphaned are encouraged to call the Wisconsin Humane Society's Wildlife Rehabilitation Center at (414) 431-6137. Do NOT attempt to handle the wild animal on your own until after you talk with one of our staff or volunteers.

·   If the wildlife expert suggests that you transport the animal to their organization, they will give you advice about how to contain and transport the animal safely. Do not provide food or water unless directed, since that may actually harm the animal. Take the animal to the wildlife facility as soon as possible to be treated. Do not attempt to treat the animal yourself: it is illegal and requires special expertise!

·   You may find a fledging bird hopping on the ground but not able to fly. This is often quite normal because many types of birds learn to fly from the ground up. Fledgings may behave like this for several days as they gain strength for flight, so it is important to keep your dog or cat away. Call your local licensed wildlife rehabilitator for advice.

·   A young opossum that appears to be less than six inches long excluding the tail is likely an orphan. Call a local wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.

·   If you discover a nest of baby rabbits that appear to be uninjured, leave them alone. Mother rabbits only visit their young a few times daily, usually after dark, so predators aren't attracted to the nest. You are welcome to call our Wildlife Tip-Line about this subject at (414) 431-6137.

·   A baby raccoon that is by himself is most likely orphaned because mother raccoons keep a close eye on their young. Please contact a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.

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Note: The WHS Wildlife Rehabilitation Center currently has Great Blue Herons being treated that arrived emaciated. To photograph these birds, or interview Wildlife Manager Scott Diehl about tips when to help injured or orphaned wild animals, contact Michelle Pintar at (414) 431-6104.