Can I Keep It?

DO NOT rescue wildlife and then KEEP (kidnap) the bird or animal for a possible pet. State and federal laws protect nearly all wild mammals and birds. It is against the law to possess the animal or bird or the nests, feathers, or eggs of a bird without special permits. High fines and possible jail time are often given. In addition, dietary needs of each species of animal are different and it is almost impossible to duplicate their needs in captivity without special training.

Second Chances receives many irreparably damaged birds and animals because the rescuer tried to keep it as a pet and did not know how to provide for it properly. Animals carry diseases and parasites that can be transmitted for animals to humans. Some parasites can even cause brain damage to humans as well as death. The animal may look healthy, but can still carry these diseases and parasites. If you have cared enough to help an animal, please care enough to take the last step in saving it by contacting a trained wildlife rehabilitator that has the supplies needed to continue caring for this animal so it can one day be released back into its natural home. Even a day or two without proper care can make a life or death difference in some animals.

It is NOT true that mammals or birds will always reject their young once they have been handled by humans. Nonetheless, the handling of wild babies should be avoided or kept to a minimum. Handling by humans can be stressful to the animal. Also, the human scent can sometimes attract predators seeking food. Never pick up any wild animal/bird with your bare hands. Please note that only adults should handle a wild animal. Animals also can carry diseases and parasites that can transfer from the animal to humans.

Wear gloves and use a stick, broom or rolled up newspaper to push the animal into an open paper bag or box. DO NOT put the animal into a plastic bag. Secure the top with tape so it doesn't get out. BE CAREFUL! An animal that is hurt or frightened may bite. A towel or blanket may be thrown over the animal to catch it before putting it in a box.

Keep the baby or injured animal WARM and CONTAINED and QUIET. Put tissues or towels in the box or bag to keep it warm, and cover it. Darkness makes the animal feel more secure. Loud noises are scary, so keep that in mind when selecting a spot for the box. Keep it out of drafts and away from air conditioners. The box can be placed half on and half off a heating pad set on low. If the animal gets too warm it can move to the other end of the box. A water bottle filled with warm water taped (to prevent rolling around) to the inside of the box will work just as well.

DO NOT FEED THE ANIMAL FOOD, WATER, OR MILK! Water and milk can go down into the animal’s lungs and kill it. Feeding an animal or bird the wrong food can cause severe diarrhea, dehydration, and even death. If an animal or bird has been caught by a cat, please call Second Chances immediately. Even if wounds are not visible, the animal or bird needs to be given antibiotics.