A Responsible Approach to Assisting Injured or Stranded Wildlife

Finding an injured or stranded animal can stir a multitude of emotions. While the urge to help is noble, a lack of understanding of the correct procedures can result in unintentional harm to the animal and yourself. In this guide, we'll walk you through the recommended steps to follow when encountering distressed wildlife.

Know When to Intervene

Determining whether an animal needs help is the first and most critical step. A young animal that appears alone might be okay; its parent could be out foraging and return shortly. Before rushing in, observe the situation from a safe distance. Assess whether the animal is in immediate danger or displaying apparent signs of distress like labored breathing, visible wounds, or unusual vocalizations. If unsure, it's best to call wildlife professionals for advice.

Safety is a Two-Way Street

If you've decided intervention is necessary, keep safety at the forefront—for you and the animal. Animals in pain or distress can act unpredictably and bite or scratch when approached. Always wear gloves to minimize the risk of disease transmission. Keep pets away from the scene to reduce stress on the wild animal and prevent any possible conflicts.

A Temporary Refuge

Your next step is to create a safe, temporary shelter for the animal. A box with small air holes and a soft cloth at the bottom is usually sufficient for smaller animals. Place the container in a quiet, warm area away from human and pet activity. Remember, this is a temporary measure until professional help arrives.

The Importance of Professional Help

Injured or distressed animals often require specialized care for the best chance of recovery. Your role should ideally be limited to initial rescue and containment; the following steps are best left to veterinarians or wildlife rehabilitators. Google local options or check with your veterinarian for recommendations on where to take the animal. In some cases, especially with endangered species or larger animals like deer or marine mammals, you may need to contact local or national wildlife agencies.

Common Pitfalls

There are a few things you should avoid when rescuing injured or stranded wildlife:

  1. Feeding the Animal: Your first instinct might be to offer food or water, but this can do more harm than good. An inappropriate diet can cause severe health problems.
  2. Excessive Handling: The less human contact, the better. Stress from the interaction can compound the animal's problems and reduce its chances of successful rehabilitation and eventual release.
  3. Home Treatment: While it may be tempting to try and nurse the animal back to health yourself, this can be illegal and harmful. Specialized care from professionals is crucial.

While You Wait for Help

Encountering an injured or stranded wild animal is a situation that demands careful action. Being prepared and informed about when and how to intervene can significantly affect the animal's chances of survival. If you're ever in doubt, your best course of action is to contact professionals for guidance. Your respect for the needs and well-being of the animal is the most critical element in helping it return to its natural environment.


Once the animal is secure and you've contacted the experts, keep the environment as calm and quiet as possible. Loud noises and additional stressors could exacerbate the animal's condition. If you've been advised to transport the animal, ensure it is securely contained for the trip. Use soft materials to minimize movement and the potential for further injury during transport.

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