Giving Nature's children a second chance

I found a wild  baby - what do I do?

For mammals - prepare a container: a box lined with soft cloth will do nicely. No terry cloth towels or washcloths, please!

For birds, prepare a container: a margarine tub or something similar will do nicely when lined with plain tissues or even paper towels. None of the medicated/moisturizing types, please!

Wear gloves if needed to protect yourself from possible bites or scratches.

Gently pick the wild baby up, covering it with a light sheet or towel if necessary to minimize its stress, and place it in the box/"nest."

Warm the baby if it is chilled, using a heating pad set on low and placed under one end of the container; or use a zip-lock plastic bag or small drink/water bottle filled with hot water and wrapped in cloth and placed next to the baby.

Keep the baby in a warm, dark, quiet place and DO NOT give it food or water unless directed to do so by a licensed wildlife rehabber.

For assistance with wildlife other than

raptors, call Georgia Wildlife Network at

678-827-5496.

If you live outside Georgia, call your state’s game and fish division for the licensed rehabber nearest you.



Please be aware that in Georgia, as in most states, it is illegal to possess wildlife without a permit, even if you plan to release it.