What to do when you find Oprhaned Wildlife

About Hobbitstee Wildlife Refuge

Many wildlife mother leave their babies while they go and forage for food. The species who's babies most often get mistakenly taken by people are deer, rabbits, raccoons and squirrels.

Steps to follow:

  1. Contact wildlife custodian near you prior to doing anything. Each situation/species requires a different approach. For a list of Wildlife Custodians in ON Click here!

  2. If you can't reach a rehabber right away leave a message and they will get back to you asap. You can also choose to contact you local SPCA or veterinarian.
  3. Please ensure that the babies in question are truly orphaned or injured and in need of help. Please observe den/nest sites from a safe distance so that you are not the cause of a parent not returning.
  4. Never handle any type of wildlife with your bare hands. Always wear gloves.
  5. If the babies in question are in immediate danger (in the middle of a busy highway or something) put gloves on, and put them in a secure container (with vent holes), lined with a blanket/towel. Keep this container in a dark, quiet and warm place.
  6. Do not under any circumstances try to feed the babies. Wait for instructions from a wildlife rehabilitator. The wrong type of food at the wrong time can be detrimental to the animal’s health. Hypothermic/Dehydrated babies will die if given food of any type.

Some resources to read

I found a baby squirrel...Now what?

There is a cottontail warren in my back yard now what?

Why You Shouldn’t Feed Injured/Orphaned Wildlife

What to do when you find a baby songbird

Some resources to view

What to do when you find a fawn
How you can help opossums
What to do if you find a baby squirrel

It is against the law to be in the possesion of native wildlife unless you are authorized by the MNRF or CWS
We have assisted over 0 Sick and Injured Wild Animals in Ontario

Wildlife in distress

For information on what to do if you found a sick or injured wild animal

Wildlife in Distress

Orphaned Wildlife

For information on what to do if you think you have found an on orphaned wild animal

Oprhaned Wildlife