This time of year brings more than showers and May flowers. The tame weather of the spring and summer brings all kinds of critters from squirrels and raccoons to baby chicks and wild turkeys. With all the wild creatures coming out of their winter hiding spots, homeowners and their pets can have some nasty run ins and there is some important things everyone should know before bringing an injured animal near your home.
Wildlife rehabilitator Joanne Dreeben says her phone rings constantly this time of year. “It’s always something like, ‘My cat brought in this, or my dog injured that, or we took down a tree and didn’t realize there was a nest in there. I would say they’re the three most common calls,” Dreeben told the Associated Press. She spends most of her time working with animals injured by lawnmowers or falling boxes in an attic. It’s not always so easy to find help either. “Most people, by the time they get to me, are frustrated: ‘This is the 12th call I’ve made!’ they say.”
Bats, skunks and raccoons are the most dangerous encounters, wildlife experts say. These animals have the highest likelihood of carrying rabies, so if your family ever comes into contact with them, the public is directed to keep clear. Once you have determined the type of visitor you have, try to determine if the animal is really injured. Check for bleeding, obvious injuries, broken bones- other visible injuries that at first glance you might have missed. If the animal is shivering or vomiting, these are obvious red flags. Unless a seriously injured animal is imminent danger, like stranded in the middle of a busy road or along the path of a dog or cat, it should be left alone until the proper authorities have been contacted.
People often make the mistake of believing an animal is injured or abandoned, when in reality, they are just leading their normal wild animal lives. Sandy Woltman, president of the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association, said a lone baby bird is not a cause for concern.“It doesn’t mean it has a bad mom or it’s abandoned,” she said, “but it probably means the mom is out getting food for herself and probably watching nearby.”
If you cannot care for the injured animal yourself, call local wildlife rehabilitators. They are usually volunteers and are state licensed to handle wild mammals and migratory birds. They are trained to nurse animals back to health and release them back into the wild. The National Wildlife Association website, www.nwrawildlife.org, has further information on what is appropriate and when to seek professional help. Local veterinarians and state environmental agencies can also be contacted if a wildlife rehabilitator cannot be reached.
