Help! I found an injured/ill/orphaned animal!
SRWC Wildlife Hotline:(207) 637-5070​
Coming across a sick or injured animal can be stressful and knowing what to do in the moment is important. If you find an animal that seems injured or sick but you’re unsure about what to do, please reach out to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator as quickly as possible for guidance on what to do next.
​
At Saco River Wildlife Center we specialize in caring for small to medium-sized mammals native to Maine. If you’ve found an injured, sick, or orphaned wild animal, please contact us for assistance.
🚨 Please Note: We do not accept birds. Click here for what to do if you’ve found a bird.
​
If you’ve found a young animal and aren’t sure if it needs help, please reach out to your local wildlife rehabber and check out our Orphaned Wildlife & Reunification Tips page. In many cases, baby animals aren’t truly abandoned and can be reunited with their parents. This guide will help you determine whether intervention is necessary and what steps to take.
Handling Wildlife: What You Need to Know
Important: Wild animals should only be handled if directed by a professional.
​
If you must intervene:
· Find a suitable container. Use a secure cardboard box or pet carrier lined with a towel or soft cloth. (Do not use towels for porcupines.)
· Use protective gear. Always wear gloves! Use a towel or cloth (except for porcupines) to contain and pick up the animal if necessary.
· Secure the animal. Gently place it in the container, keeping the towel loosely over it.
· Ensure the container is escape-proof. Secure the lid to prevent escapes. Place air holes in the box if needed.
· Minimize stress. Keep the animal warm, in a dark and quiet place, and away from people and pets.
· Do NOT offer food or water. Many online tips can harm or even kill the animal.
If you are unsure or need advice, please call or text SRWC at (207) 637-5070 before handling the animal.
​
Important Safety Reminders
-
Always wear gloves when handling wildlife to reduce the risk of disease transmission, such as rabies.
-
Stress can be deadly. Avoid handling, photos, or unnecessary disturbance.
-
Touching baby animals will NOT cause their parents to reject them—this is a myth.
-
It is illegal to rehabilitate wildlife without a permit, and keeping wild animals as pets is against the law.
​
Who to Contact for Other Wildlife
-
Sick, injured, or orphaned birds:
Center for Wildlife – (207) 361-1400
Avian Haven – (207) 382-6761
​
-
Stranded marine mammals or seal pups:
Marine Mammals of Maine Hotline – 1-800-532-9551
​
-
Other important contacts:
Maine Warden Service – (207) 287-8000
USDA Wildlife Services – (866) 487-3297