It happens every year: spring arrives, the world fills with new life, and soon our phones start ringing—
“I found a baby animal. What should I do?”
We love that so many people care about helping wildlife. But the truth is: not every baby animal you find needs rescuing.
In fact, sometimes the kindest thing you can do is to leave it be.
Here’s a quick guide to help you know what to do (and what NOT to do) if you find a wild little one this season:
First: Observe, Don’t Assume
It’s very natural for wild babies to be left alone for periods of time while the mother feeds or avoids drawing attention to them.
Many babies that look “orphaned” are not orphaned at all! Moving them can actually harm their chances of survival.
Signs a Baby May Be Just Fine
🐣 Songbirds: Fledglings on the ground are normal! They’re learning to fly, and the parents are usually nearby.
🐇 Baby rabbits: Nests are often shallow scrapes in the grass—if the babies look warm, clean, and quiet, mom is probably caring for them when you’re not around.
🦝 Raccoons, foxes, and coyotes: Young ones may venture out of dens or tree hollows as they grow. If the baby is not cold, crying, or visibly ill or injured, mom may be nearby.
🦌 Fawns: Mothers intentionally leave fawns hidden in tall grass for hours at a time to keep them safe from predators. A quiet, still fawn alone is usually not abandoned.
When to Call for Help
Some situations really do call for human intervention. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or your local animal control if:
🚩 The animal is clearly injured or bleeding
🚩 The animal is cold, thin, weak, or covered in flies
🚩 The mother has been confirmed dead or unable to return
🚩 The baby has been handled or “rescued” and can no longer be safely returned
🚩 The animal is in a dangerous area (road, construction zone, neighborhood cat zone)
DO NOT try to care for the animal yourself.
A Few Big “Don’ts”
🚫 Don’t feed wild babies. Cow’s milk, human baby formula, or inappropriate foods can cause fatal digestive problems.
🚫 Don’t remove the animal unless absolutely necessary. When in doubt—observe from a distance and call a wildlife professional for advice.
🚫 Don’t attempt to raise wild animals at home. It is illegal without a permit, and even the best intentions can lead to permanent harm or imprinting that prevents release.
How You Can Help Wildlife
✅ Share this information with friends and neighbors—especially those who love animals and want to help.
✅ Keep dogs and cats away from areas where wildlife may be nesting.
✅ Support your local wildlife rehabilitation centers (like Cat Tales!) so we can be ready when genuine rescues are needed.
✅ And if in doubt—always call a professional before taking action. We’re happy to offer advice!
Springtime is full of life, and nature knows what it’s doing.
Together, with care and good information, we can give wild babies the best chance—whether that means rescue, or letting nature take its course.
Thank you for being a wildlife friend!
🐾 – The Cat Tales Wildlife Center Team