I found a mammal

Armadillos

Deer

Opossums

Rabbits

Raccoons

Squirrels

NOTE: Native mammals are protected by state laws and it is illegal for the public to possess these creatures.  It is imperative that any injured or orphaned mammals be brought to a permitted wildlife rehabilitator so that they can get proper care.

When to Rescue

• If the parent is known to be dead and the baby is too young to be on its own.
• If the animal is weak, thin, and cold or appears sick.
• If the animal is injured in any way, including cat or dog bite, hit by car, or shot.
• If there are flies, ants, or insects on or around the animal.
• If the animal is in obvious danger, including problems with other animals, people, or any life threatening-situation that cannot be rectified.

When NOT to Rescue

• If the parent is nearby. Parents rarely abandon healthy offspring. It is natural for some species to leave their young for several hours unattended (rabbits, deer) while eating, so as not to draw attention the baby’s location.
• If the animal appears healthy, alert, bright-eyed, and is not in apparent danger. Observation may be necessary to determine if the animal really needs to be rescued. Watch from some distance away, preferably from a window inside the house. Keep children and pets away so the reunion between mother and baby can be accomplished.

Basic rescue rules

1. Don’t endanger yourself. Do not attempt to rescue the animal if the situation could harm you or the animal. Call a rehabilitator. If you’re in our service area, then call GCWR. Non-locals will need to find a rehabber in their area.
2. Never give water, milk, or any food to the animal. Giving an injured or dehydrated animal food can kill it. Let the rehabilitator access the animal and administer the proper fluids.
3. Prepare a container. Find a cardboard box of similar size to the animal if possible so that it can’t thrash around. You may put in paper towels or a soft cloth such as a t-shirt. Do not use terrycloth bath towels since claws can easily tangle in the loops. Punch air holes into the box.
4. Place animal into container. Tape the box shut, ensuring not to cover the air holes.
5. Provide warmth if cold. If the environment is cold or the animal is chilled, you can place a heating pad under the box, set to low.
6. Keep in a warm, dark, quiet place. Handle the animal as little as possible and wash hands thoroughly. Keep children and pets away.
7. Note exactly where you found the animal. This will be very important for release.
8. Call a rehabilitator. If you’re in our service area, then call GCWR. Non-locals will need to find a rehabber in their area.