Rescuing Wildlife 101

One of the frequent questions that comes up is what to do with injured wildlife.  With our Burrowing Owls, they don't fall out of trees like many of our other fine feathered friends, but they do get hit by automobiles, are attacked by hawks and cats and can suffer from poisoning from lawn chemicals.

Wildlife experts all agree, before you attempt to rescue a wild animal, be sure it needs rescuing. Soon after hatching many ground birds can fend for them selves and are frequently found wandering away from the nest.  Birds that have fallen from trees may actually be on their first flight and are under the watchful eyes of the parents who may be nearby but unseen.

If you do happen upon an injured animal, realize that you aren't qualified to care for the animal.  Additionally it is illegal to keep native wildlife in captivity, so taking it to a wildlife rehab center is your best bet.  But even that has it caveats.

Sometimes it is better to let nature take its course and leave the wild life alone to its own defences.

Handling wildlife, especially injured ones and lead to more injury to the bird as well as the possibility of serious injury to the rescuer who may be bitten or scratched by a frightened animal.

If you must rescue an animal from imminent danger, be sure and wear protective gear.  Heavy gloves are a must.  If you can, gently throw a towel or blanket over the animal to try and calm the animal.  Use a shovel or broom to get the animal in a CARDBOARD BOX, never a plastic box which quickly overheats.

Here in Cape Coral, Florida, our injured animals go to C.R.O.W, a wildlife rehabilitation center located on Sanibel Island.   (239-472-3644)

Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife can also be contacted for assistance with injured Burrowing Owls and Gopher Tortoises.  (239-980-2593)

Kindness Animal Hospital is also available to assist with injured animals.  They are located at:

15 Cape Coral Pkwy W
Cape Coral, FL 33914(239) 542-7387