Spring has sprung and many wild animals are out and about. Ensure you take caution while driving and make smart decisions when it comes to coexisting with wildlife.
Here is information on what to do if you happen to come across injured or orphaned wildlife.
INJURY:
- If the animal is not in imminent danger of further injury or predation, do not move the animal until an assessment can be made.
- If there is obvious injury (e.g. causing bleeding), it is very important to get help by calling your local wildlife rehabilitation center or a veterinarian.
- Keep the animal warm by covering with a blanket or a towel.
- If there is bleeding, place a compress over the affected area, and apply pressure.
- Do not attempt this if there is any chance of injury from the animal biting or clawing you.
- Avoid unnecessary human contact with the animal.
- Keep in a warm dry place.
DO NOT try to feed the animal– Wildlife doesn’t eat the same things humans do, and often by feeding them what you presume is correct, you are greatly decreasing the animal’s chance of survival.
Once the animal is stabilized contact the Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary at 705-732-6368 or 705-644-4122 or your local wildlife rehabilitation centre.
ORPHANED:
- Unless the animal requires urgent care, leave it alone for a reasonable period of time. It is crucial to be absolutely certain that the mother is not going to return.
- Often, young deer are seen alone and it is assumed that they are orphaned, however this is commonly not the case. Mother deer watch their fawns from far away. As long as there is no visible threat, it is necessary for the animal to be left for 24 hours.
- Keep the animal in a warm, dry, dark, quiet place.
- Do not feed the animal.
- Do not give cow’s milk – most baby mammals are intolerant and may die as a result of receiving cow’s milk.
- If the animal appears to be in shock (e.g. white gums, paws) administer a small amount of lukewarm water by syringe. If the animal takes water, gently massage the tummy to encourage output.
Once the animal is stabilized contact the Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary at 705-732-6368 or 705-644-4122 or your local wildlife rehabilitation centre.
It is illegal to keep wildlife in captivity without authorization from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Maintaining wildlife without permission can result in charges and fines.
If you have any other wildlife related questions, call Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary at 705-732-6368.
Sources:
Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary via Muskoka 411