Help! I've found a Wild Animal!
How Do You Know if the Animal is Actually in Trouble?
If you see an animal or bird with obvious injuries, is cold and limp, or has flies buzzing around it, the animal needs to be rescued.
Young animals that are seen away from their parents are not necessarily in trouble, especially if they are warm and appear active, healthy, and alert.
The most important thing to help an injured wild animal is to first of all, handle with care. Place the animal in a cardboard box with holes punched in it for air. Keep the box in a warm, quiet place (a bathroom, a garage) so that the animal will not become chilled or further stressed until help is found.
Help! I've Found a Baby Animal
Click on the type of animal you have found:
A Baby Mammal - For example, a baby rabbit, squirrel, opossum, etc.
A Baby Songbird - Young songbirds are born naked and with their eyes closed.
A Baby Duck or Goose - Ducklings and Goslings are covered in fuzzy downy feathers.
A Baby Bird - Click here if you are not sure what kind of baby bird you found.
Help! I've Found a Sick or Injured Animal
Click on the type of animal you have found:
Adult Bird |
Adult Mammal |
Raccoon |
Bat |
Snake |
Turtle |
Escaped Pet or Domestic Animal
Don’t see the type of animal that you’ve found in this list? Contact us. Please note: Our charter only allows us to accept local indigenous wildlife. Swans, starlings, house sparrows, and pigeons are among the species considered invasive on Long Island. Although VW does not typically treat non-native species, we can assist you in finding help. Click here for more information on non-native, domestic, and exotic animals.
Can I Trap An Animal On My Property?
In some cases, it is appropriate to contact a licensed wildlife removal agency to address the problem of nuisance animals. Visit Wildlife-Removal.com for more information on trapping and control of nuisance animals, and to locate a licensed, insured, and humane wildlife control agency locally. Remember, hiring a trapper to remove a pest animal will do you little good if you do not prevent them from re-entering your property! A reputable wildlife control agency can assist you in preventing any future problems with nuisance wildlife.
For Bee Problems...
The Long Island Beekeeper's Club can offer assistance with removal of bees on your property. You can locate a local beekeeper on their website, click here for more information.