Spring is here! This time of year we receive numerous calls about local wildlife, particularly new babies. We invite you to read the information below and call us before you consider helping a wild animal.

Here at KBAH, our veterinarians and staff provide their time and resources to care for injured wildlife free of charge. Monetary donations to our wildlife fund are always most welcome, but donations of newspapers, old towels or blankets are also very helpful! We thank you for your support!

Assess the situation before picking up an animal!

Wild animals often leave their young unattended for several hours or more while they are out gathering food. Be aware that animals thought to be orphans may not need your assistance. For example, it is normal for mother rabbits to return to feed their babies only once or twice a day! Many baby birds that are learning to fly or fall from the nest are not actually injured or orphaned - often times, Mama Bird will fly down to the ground throughout the day to continue feeding their baby.

Do not intervene unless you are certain that the animal is orphaned, it is obviously injured or is in immediate danger. If you suspect that an animal is orphaned, watch from a distance for a minimum of several hours and attempt to reunite the orphan with its mother if at all possible.

Be careful!

If an animal appears to be sick, it may not be safe to handle it! If an animal is stumbling, staggering, walking in circles, dragging a limb or the hind end, or if it is acting strangely (approaching people or pets in an aggressive manner) never attempt to handle the animal. Call your local Animal Control Officer, Police Department or Department of Environmental Protection Dispatch (860-424-3333) immediately to get assistance.

Wild animals can be dangerous! Their behavior is often unpredictable. Do not attempt to rescue a potentially dangerous animal without assistance from someone with experience.

If you must handle an animal in need, it always advised to wear gloves for your protection. Small animals may be wrapped in a towel and placed in a well-ventilated box or sturdy animal carrier for transport.

Remember that it is illegal for any person, other than a state appointed rehabilitator, to keep or care for wildlife.