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“Wildlife…Our most treasured and natural resource confronts greater challenges than ever before. And we, too, are challenged to ensure the well-being of all creatures which share our world.”

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I found an “Orphan” Baby Animal

What Do I Do?

Contact us immediately (301-342-7643 work, 240-725-0785 home or 240-298-6324 cell) Back to the Wild Rescue and Rehab, Mary Martin and Matthew Wilkes, California, MD.

Never handle without gloves – failure to do so may result in human exposure and consequently, death of the animal. Thoroughly wash your hands after removing gloves.

Confine the “orphans” in such a way that the mother has access to them if she returns (bushel or laundry basket upside down with a brick on top). Stay out of sight and observe the infants for 4 hours.  More often than not, the infants are not actually orphans but possible “kidnap victims” of well meaning humans.

Provide a heat source to small infants.  Heating pad on low wrapped in a towel under half of basket is best. You may also fill a plastic container (watertight seal) with hot water and wrap in a towel then place in basket.  Do not leave in direct sunlight or exposed to wet and damp.
 
Once you have determined that the mother is not returning, use heavy leather gloves and place in a warm, dark, quiet place and keep children and pets away.

NEVER feed infants as these animals require specialized formulas and most of the food given to them by well meaning humans can be fatal to their digestive systems and result in slow and painful deaths.  It is also important to realize that cold infants cannot digest food.

It is against the law in Maryland to keep wild animals if you aren’t a licensed rehabilitator, even if you plan to release them.



Back to The Wild Rescue & Rehab
Mary Martin and Matthew Wilkes
Licensed Master, Rabies Vector Species, Migratory Bird & Wildlife Rehabilitators
240-725-0785

mmartin@backtothewildrescueandrehab.org