Mammals (Baby/Juvenile)

Observe the animal to determine if it is in danger. Babies may be alone but often have a parent nearby. With some species, babies are left alone intentionally. Do not intervene until you get the advice of a wildlife rehabilitator.

Signs that a baby animal needs help:

• Obvious wounds or blood
• Any contact with a cat (cat saliva is deadly to small animals)
• Presence of string, oil, glue, or other substances
• Infestation with bugs or eggs
• Foreign objects stuck to its body
• Circling or loss of balance
• Immobile for a long period of time
• Lethargic and cold

Signs that the animal may not need help:

• Alone —mothers may leave temporarily or stay away purposefully to avoid attracting predators to their young. Monitor from a distance for up to 24 hours to see if the mother returns.

Contain animals by contacting a professional wildlife rehabilitator. Your safety comes first.

Things to keep in mind:

• The mother or the baby may be defensive.
• Avoid further injury to the animal.
• Use safety equipment and items like blankets, boxes, and car mats.
• Avoid direct contact with mammals—use indirect methods to guide them.
• Prioritize your safety, seek advice from a wildlife rehabilitator before intervening. If injured, consult a doctor.

• Keep the animal in a dark, warm, quiet place. Do not give food and water until instructed by a rehabilitator. Transport it to the Centre as soon as possible. *NOTE it is illegal for members of the public to rehabilitate wildlife. Once an animal is contained, efforts should be focused on arranging for transport to a licensed rehabilitator.
• Babies need to be kept warm. Create a heat source using dry rice in a sock, a sealed bottle with warm water, or a low-setting heating pad. Babies can get cold quickly.

Keep the drive as stress-free as possible (i.e., low voices, no music, no smoking) and ensure the animal is contained. Don’t travel with an animal in your arms.

If you cannot drive, contact Turtle Pond Wildlife Centre for transportation options.