FOUND A BABY WILD ANIMAL?

The number of animals we can rehabilitate at one time fluctuates on the time of year. Please call ahead if you feel its an animal that needs to be brought in and understand we might not be able to take it due to being at capacity.

Not all of them need rescuing! Here’s a quick guide...

Baby Birds

  • Hopping around with feathers? It’s a fledgling — leave it. Parents are close.

  • No feathers + on the ground? Try putting it back in the nest, or a makeshift one nearby.

Baby Squirrels

  • Eyes closed, tiny? Put it in a box at the base of the tree — mom may come get it. If mom doesn’t show up within 2-3 hours, bring the squirrel to us.

  • Eyes open + active? Probably old enough to explore!

Baby Rabbits

  • Found in a shallow nest? Leave them alone! Mom only visits 2 times a day (dusk and dawn).

  • Cold, injured, or wandering alone? Bring the rabbit to us.

  • Rabbits the size of a tennis ball are ok to be left on their own.

Ducklings

  • Alone + chirping? Look to see if mom is around. Look up into the trees as well, wood ducks’ nest in trees. If no mom close by, bring the duck to us.

  • In danger or no mom around? Call for help.

Baby Opossums

  • Smaller than 7 inches and alone (not including tail)? Likely orphaned. Bring the opossum to us.

  • Momma hit by a car? Check her pouch, if there are babies DO NOT REMOVE them. Bring momma and her babies to us.

  • Clinging to mom’s back? Leave them — that’s normal! She carries her babies this way.

Step in if…

  • It’s injured or cold

  • It’s been alone for hours

  • It’s in danger (pets, roads, etc.)

Here is a link to other Wisconsin rehabbers. https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/WildlifeHabitat/directory