Safe Handling of Wildlife

Encounters with injured or orphaned wildlife happen when you least expect. Your safety and the safety of others should be your primary concern. Coming to the aid of injured or sick wildlife may seem like a worthy cause but if you are injured in the process, this could ultimately result in a less then favorable outcome for you and the animal. If bit by a Rabies vector species, whether or not it actually has Rabies, it will have to be killed and tested to protect you.

Never handle a large bird of prey, a raccoon, a skunk, a deer, or an opossum that appears alert and responsive. These animals have particularly powerful talons, teeth, legs, and claws. If you are not able to safely contain or unsure how to handle an animal, either leave the animal or bird where you found it and let nature take its course or contact your local animal control or fish and game officer. Call the local animal control office or police department for assistance if the animal poses a threat to public health or safety.

See Official Contacts above for help.