FAQ
What do I do if:
I find a wild animal that needs help?
Don’t endanger yourself; be careful not to be bitten. If you come across a dangerous wild animal, call the PA Game Commission or 911. You can reach the PA Game Commission at (717) 787-4250.
Contain the animal if possible using gloves and a towel and place the animal in a covered box in a quiet place. Once the animal is contained, don’t touch it. The critter is out of is environment and you could put it into shock, potentially killing it.
Don't keep the animal overnight; the injury may not kill it, but being taken out of its environment can. In many cases, an animal that can be caught is in serious condition. Babies must be put in an incubator as soon as possible.
Do not offer food or water (especially milk) until the creature's health can be evaluated. Feeding an injured animal can do a lot of harm if surgery is required; the animal could aspirate and die.
My dog or cat brings in a live animal?
Do not put it back. Usually when animals are caught by a dog or cat, they are seriously injured although they may not appear to be. Cat bites are toxic, and antibiotics should be given right away.
A rabbit's nest is run over by the mower?
If the baby rabbits are not injured, cover the nest with "dry" grass and leave it alone. Mother rabbits are very dedicated but they only feed their young at night. You probably will not see the mother returning. Check the nest in the morning. If the nest is disturbed and the babies are warm and not fussing, they are okay.
A bird hits a window?
Leave it alone for 1 or 2 hours. By touching the bird, you can cause it to go into a deeper shock and it could die. If it only has a concussion, it will fly away.
A turtle is crossing the road?
Move the turtle off the road in the direction he was going if possible. Turtles have a small home range and removing it from there is detrimental to the turtle's survival. If the turtle has been hit, we do wonders with cracked shells. You will be asked exactly where you got him, so be sure to remember the area. He then can be returned to his home range.
A fawn is lying in a field by itself?
The mother put the fawn there so she could forage for food. If the fawn is not crying or injured, leave it there and check it in 12 to 24 hours.
A nest with eggs needs to be moved?
It is recommended not to move the nest. The mother may not find it because there is no sound from the babies to attract her.
A baby bird falls from the nest?
Many times the bird can be put back if it is determined it is okay.
Is it OK to keep an animal I find?
No, it is illegal to possess a Pennsylvania wild animal without a permit and/or a license with the exception of house sparrows, European starling and pigeons. All other native species are illegal to have in your possession. Federal law also protects native species of birds, which includes the bird, its feathers and the nest.