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Wildlife In Crisis: When to Intervene

Updated: May 8

Do not take unnecessary risks!

Human safety must always come first, observe the situation from a safe distance and take pictures.


Removing a wild animal from its natural habitat could potentially do more harm than good. Before attempting to intervene, please make sure the animal actually needs your help.


Contact an Authorized Wildlife Custodian as soon as possible if you are unsure or unable to determine if a wild animal is in distress or in need of intervention. Clear pictures and video can be extremely helpful for assessing situational details and the animals condition.

 

What you are witnessing may be perfectly normal behaviour. Look for signs of distress:

  • Weakness or unconsciousness

  • Vomiting or diarrhea

  • Discharge from the ears, eyes or nose

  • Large patches of missing/damaged feathers, fur or shell

  • Foreign objects stuck to or wrapped around the body or limbs

  • A deceased parent or siblings nearby

  • Blood or bleeding

  • Open wounds or exposed skin

  • Fly eggs or maggots

  • Cat attack - even without visible or obvious wounds

  • Hindered movement, broken, injured or missing limbs.

  • Shivering or non-stop crying

Any of theses signs mean the animal needs immediate help!

The next step is getting the animal secured and safely contained until you can find help for it. If you already have it contained, contact an Authorized Wildlife Custodian as soon as possible.


Do not attempt to feed the animal or offer any water without explicit instructions from an authorized wildlife custodian as this can cause serious, even life threatening complications.

 

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