If it is after hours and you are unable to reach us at the centre (946-2361) and have found an injured or sick animal, there are a few things you can do to help. Most importantly, MAKE SURE YOU ARE SAFE!  Be aware of possible hazards to you, such as traffic, fast flowing water, thin ice, electrical lines, poisons and of course the unpredictable and possibly aggressive behaviour of an injured wild animal.

Bear in mind that some birds will feign injury in an attempt to lead you away from their nest and/or young. However, if after quietly observing the animal for several minutes, you think the animal is ill or injured, there are a few things you can do to help it. First of all, protect it from pets (cat bites are an all too common and often fatal injury we see at the centre).

White-Tailed Prairie Hare that was hit by a car. Treated and released 2 months later!

If the animal is an adult, you must carefully evaluate the situation, as the animal may try to defend itself and injure you. It is best to leave a message on our answering machine at 946-2361 and we will contact you in the morning. If the animal is young you can attempt to capture it. First you should prepare a cardboard box roughly equaling the animal/birds size and poke airholes into it. Next, line it with a clean towel free of any holes or frayed ends. You should wear a pair of leather gloves and safety glasses and grab a sheet or towel to gather the animal into. Be quiet and calm as you approach the animal, gently place the towel over them and be VERY CAREFUL OF BEAKS, TALONS, CLAWS AND TEETH!!  Do not endanger yourself! Gently place the animal in the box, close and tape the lid, and keep the box in a quiet area. Do not give the animal ANY food or water.

Click onto the link above for vet clinics who will accept wildlife on our behalf or phone the centre and leave a message on our answering machine so we can arrange to send out a driver as soon as possible to retrieve the animal.

Thank you for your concern and efforts!