You’ve come across a sick, injured or displaced baby animal. Don’t panic! Here’s how to respond:
Baby rabbits:
Don’t assume they’re orphans. Mother rabbits return to the nest to feed their babies only at dawn and dusk. Wide-eyed rabbits that are more than 4 inches long are independent animals. If you’re certain that a baby rabbit has been abandoned, put it in an escape-proof, ventilated container.
Ducklings:
Chicks need to be warm, so orphaned ducklings can be placed in a tall cardboard box with newspapers in the bottom and a 60-watt light bulb overhead. Don’t let them swim! Ducklings are susceptible to hypothermia.
Raccoons:
Don’t try to rescue a raccoon by yourself. They can carry diseases that are transmittable to humans and pets. Even baby raccoons can, and will, bite. If the raccoon is in immediate danger, wear heavy leather gloves and cage it in a pet carrier.
Next, get in touch with Project Wildlife (619-225-WILD). Keep baby animals away from children and pets. Don’t try to give them food: Improper feeding methods can prove fatal.
Please visit projectwildlife.org for more information.