Who to Call

If you have found a wild animal in Rhode Island that seems to be in need, please call one of these resources before taking any of the steps listed below so we can discuss the situation with you. Not all circumstances require intervention.

Wild Birds:

Wildlife Clinic of RI
(401) 294-6363

or
Congress of the Birds
(513)-236-0654

All Other Wild Animals:

Wildlife Clinic of RI
(401) 294-6363

Animals are sent to Wild Things Rescue Cove as needed/ appropriate

Steps To Take

You’ll notice a common thread below. Do not attempt to give any animals food or water. You will likely do more harm than good.
Always use gloves when handling wildlife.

Please note, it is illegal to take a wild animal into your home and keep it as a pet or care for and release it unless you are a licensed rehabilitator. It is also illegal to move a wild bird or mammal across state lines. 

PLEASE DO NOT TOUCH RABIES VECTOR SPECIES - Notice from the Wildlife Clinic of RI and RI DEM:

In Rhode Island, all species of bats, woodchucks/groundhogs, and all members of the order Carnivora (which includes (but is not limited to) skunks, foxes, raccoons, bobcats, coyotes, weasels, mink, bear and seals) are considered to be Rabies Vector Species (RVS). If you come across an individual of any of these species that you think may be in need of assistance, please do not touch them with bare hands. Any bare-handed contact may be considered an "exposure" by the RI Department of Health and the animal would be required by law to be euthanized and submitted for rabies testing. BEFORE you handle, please contact Wildlife Clinic of RI for instructions at 401-294-6363 or contact the RI DEM at 401-222-3070. For marine mammals (including seals), please contact Mystic Aquarium at 860-572-5955 x 107. 

Orphaned Animals - please don’t let your kids play with the cute babies!

    1. Determine If They Are Truly Orphaned:

      • Check for a Nest: Look for a shallow depression lined with fur or grass.

      • Mother Rabbits Visit Infrequently: Mothers only feed their young at dawn and dusk, so it’s normal for the babies to be alone.

      • Signs of Orphaning: Constant crying, visible injuries, or a disturbed/destroyed nest.

    2. Do Not Handle Unless Necessary:

      • If the nest is intact, gently cover the babies back up and leave them alone.

      • If the nest is disturbed, rebuild it as best as you can using soft grass and fur from the area.

    3. Monitor the Situation:

      • Place small twigs or light yarn in an “X” pattern over the nest. Check after 12 hours—if the "X" is disturbed, the mother has returned.

    4. Reunite with the Mother (if possible):

      • If the babies are warm and uninjured, return them to the nest. The mother will not abandon them due to human scent.

    5. Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator:

      • If the bunnies are injured, cold, or the mother does not return within 12-24 hours, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.

      • Do not attempt to feed the bunnies or care for them yourself, as improper handling can be fatal.

    6. Temporary Care (if instructed):

      • If advised by a rehabilitator, place the bunnies in a small, ventilated box lined with soft cloth. Keep them warm and quiet.

    1. Assess the Situation:

      • Leave it alone if uninjured and not in immediate danger. Mother squirrels often retrieve fallen babies.

      • If the squirrel is injured, cold, or crying continuously, it may need help.

    2. Keep the Squirrel Safe:

      • Place it in a small, ventilated box lined with soft cloth (no terry cloth or loose threads).

      • Keep the box in a quiet, warm area, away from pets or children.

    3. Reunite with the Mother (if possible):

      • Place the box with the squirrel near the base of the tree where it was found.

      • Keep a safe distance and watch for the mother to return (this may take several hours).

    4. Provide Warmth (if needed):

      • If the squirrel feels cold, place a warm water bottle or heating pad (on low) under part of the box. Ensure the squirrel can move away from the heat if it gets too warm.

    5. Do Not Feed or Give Water:

      • Feeding an orphaned squirrel the wrong food can be harmful. Wait for guidance from a wildlife rehabilitator.

    6. Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator:

      • If the mother does not return, or the squirrel is injured or in danger, call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.

    1. Determine If Help Is Needed:

      • Leave it alone if it is larger than 7 inches (without the tail): It is likely old enough to survive on its own.

      • Help if it is smaller than 7 inches, injured, cold, or following people/pets: It may be orphaned and in need of assistance.

    2. Safely Contain the Opossum:

      • Place it in a small, ventilated box lined with soft cloth (avoid loose threads).

      • Keep the box in a warm, quiet area, away from pets or children.

    3. Keep the Opossum Warm:

      • If it feels cold, place a warm water bottle or heating pad (on low) wrapped in a cloth under part of the box. Ensure it can move away from the heat.

    4. Do Not Feed or Give Water:

      • Feeding an orphaned opossum without proper training can be harmful. Wait for guidance from a wildlife rehabilitator.

    5. Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator:

      • Call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately for advice. Opossums require specialized care to survive.

    • Observe Before Acting:

      • While most birds do fledge, precocial species and ground-nesting birds break the traditional idea of fledging by leaving the nest almost immediately after hatching. They are born with downy feathers and are highly developed. They leave the nest (or nesting area) very soon after hatching but rely on parents for guidance and protection.

        • Examples include: Waterfowl (ducks, geese, swans), Shorebirds (plovers, sandpipers), Gamebirds (quail, pheasants, turkeys)

      • When in doubt it is always best to call Congress of the Birds at (513)-236-0654.

      • Birds that do fledge from the nest (Fledglings: (feathered, hopping/flapping): These birds are learning to fly and usually don't need help. Parents are often nearby.

        • Nestlings (few/no feathers): These birds are too young to survive outside the nest and may need assistance.

      • Return to the Nest (if safe):

        • If the nest is nearby and accessible, gently place the bird back. Parents will not abandon it because of human scent.

      • Create a Substitute Nest (if necessary):

        • Use a small basket or container lined with tissue or grass.

        • Secure it in a tree close to where the bird was found.

      • Monitor from a Distance:

        • Watch for parents returning to feed or care for the bird. If they do, no further action is needed.

      • Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator:

        • If the bird is injured, cold, or parents don’t return within 1-2 hours, call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.

        • Do not attempt to feed or give water to the bird.

      • Keep the Bird Safe (temporarily):

        • Place it in a small, ventilated box lined with soft cloth. Keep it warm, quiet, and away from pets or children.

  • 1. Assess the Situation:

    • Do not immediately intervene. Waterfowl parents may be nearby or temporarily out of sight.

    • Signs of true orphaning include:

      • The parent is visibly deceased.

      • The young are continuously crying, wandering alone, or in danger (e.g., on a road or near predators).

    2. Minimize Handling:

    • If the waterfowl are in immediate danger (e.g., in a roadway), gently guide them to safety using a towel or your hands. Avoid unnecessary handling to reduce stress.

    3. Reunite with Parents (if possible):

    • Place the young waterfowl in a safe, visible area near where they were found and observe from a distance.

    • Parents often return to retrieve their young, especially if they are calling out.

    4. Contain the Orphans Safely:

    • If no parent returns within 1–2 hours, or the young are in danger, place them in a secure, ventilated box lined with a soft towel.

    • Keep the container warm, quiet, and away from pets and children.

    5. Do Not Feed or Give Water:

    • Feeding or hydrating orphaned waterfowl without proper guidance can be harmful. Wait for instructions from a wildlife rehabilitator.

    6. Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator Immediately:

    • Call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in Rhode Island for assistance. Waterfowl require specialized care to survive.

    • You can also contact the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RI DEM) for referrals to rehabilitators.

    7. Transport Carefully (if instructed):

    • If advised, transport the waterfowl to a wildlife rehabilitator in the same secure, ventilated box. Drive gently to avoid further stress.

    1. Avoid Direct Contact:

      • These species can carry rabies, which is transmissible to humans and pets.

    2. Keep Pets and People Away:

      • Ensure pets and other people stay far from the animal to prevent potential exposure.

    3. Call for assistance:

      • Call RI DEM at 401-222-3070 or Wildlife Clinic of RI at 401-294-6363

      • Provide clear details about the situation, including the animal’s behavior, size, and exact location.

Injured Animals

    1. Approach Gently:

      1. Injured rabbits are easily stressed and may panic. Move slowly and avoid loud noises.

        • Wear gloves to handle the rabbit to prevent stress and protect yourself.

      2. Contain the Rabbit Safely:

        • Gently place the rabbit in a well-ventilated box or pet carrier lined with a soft towel.

        • Ensure the container is secure to prevent escape and keep it in a quiet, warm area.

      3. Do Not Feed or Give Water:

        • Feeding or hydrating an injured rabbit without proper training can cause harm. Wait for advice from a wildlife rehabilitator.

      4. Keep It Calm and Safe:

        • Minimize handling and keep the box away from noise, pets, and children.

      5. Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator:

        • Call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in Rhode Island for guidance and assistance.

        • You can also contact the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RI DEM) for referrals to local rehabilitators.

      6. Describe the Rabbit’s Condition:

        • When calling a rehabilitator, provide details about the rabbit's injuries, behavior, and where it was found.

    1. Assess the Situation:

      1. Observe the squirrel from a distance to determine if it is truly injured (e.g., bleeding, limping, unable to move, or acting unusually).

        • If it appears stunned (e.g., after falling or being hit), give it a few minutes to recover before intervening.

      2. Approach with Caution:

        • Injured squirrels may bite or scratch when scared. Wear gloves to protect yourself.

        • Move slowly and minimize loud noises to avoid causing stress.

      3. Contain the Squirrel Safely:

        • Use a towel or thick gloves to gently place the squirrel into a small, ventilated box or pet carrier.

        • Line the container with a soft cloth (no loose threads) for comfort.

        • Secure the lid to prevent escape.

      4. Keep the Squirrel Warm and Quiet:

        • If the squirrel is cold or immobile, place a heating pad (on low) under part of the container, or add a warm water bottle wrapped in a cloth.

        • Keep the container in a quiet, dark place away from pets, children, and noise.

      5. Do Not Feed or Give Water:

        • Feeding or hydrating an injured squirrel without proper knowledge can be harmful. Wait for instructions from a wildlife rehabilitator.

      6. Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator:

        • Call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in Rhode Island for advice and assistance.

        • If you are unable to reach a rehabilitator, contact the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RI DEM) for guidance.

      7. Describe the Situation:

        • When contacting a rehabilitator, provide details about the squirrel’s condition, injuries, and location.

      8. Minimize Handling:

        • Avoid excessive handling or peeking into the container, as stress can worsen the squirrel’s condition.

    1. Assess the Situation:

      1. Check if the opossum is alive or showing signs of injury (e.g., bleeding, limping, unresponsive, or unusual behavior).

        • If the opossum is a female, look for babies in her pouch or nearby. Orphaned babies may need care too.

      2. Approach with Caution:

        • Injured opossums can be defensive and may bite or scratch. Wear gloves and use a towel or blanket to handle them if necessary.

      3. Contain the Opossum Safely:

        • Place the opossum in a secure, well-ventilated box or pet carrier lined with soft material (e.g., a towel or blanket).

        • Keep the box in a warm, quiet location, away from pets, children, and noise.

      4. Do Not Feed or Give Water:

        • Feeding an injured opossum the wrong food or in its condition may cause harm. Wait for instructions from a wildlife rehabilitator.

      5. Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator Immediately:

        • Call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in Rhode Island for guidance and assistance.

        • If you cannot reach a rehabilitator, contact the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RI DEM) for help.

      6. Describe the Opossum’s Condition:

        • Provide details about the injuries, location, and behavior when you contact a rehabilitator.

      7. Minimize Stress:

        • Avoid excessive handling or noise around the opossum to reduce stress and improve its chances of recovery.

    • 1. Observe First:

      • Watch the bird from a distance to confirm it is injured.

      • Signs of injury include:

        • Unable to fly or stand.

        • Drooping wing(s), visible wounds, or bleeding.

        • Lethargy or difficulty breathing.

      2. Approach Gently:

      • Move slowly and avoid startling the bird. Injured birds are easily stressed and may panic.

      • Wear gloves or use a soft cloth to handle the bird for your protection and to minimize stress.

      3. Safely Contain the Bird:

      • Place the bird in a small, well-ventilated box or pet carrier lined with a soft towel or paper towels.

      • Ensure the container has a lid or secure cover to prevent escape.

      • Keep the container in a quiet, warm place away from noise, pets, and children.

      4. Do Not Feed or Give Water:

      • Feeding or hydrating the bird can cause harm. Wait for advice from a wildlife rehabilitator.

      5. Minimize Stress:

      • Limit handling and avoid peeking into the container. Stress can worsen the bird’s condition.

      6. Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator:

      • Call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in Rhode Island immediately for help.

      • Provide the following information:

        • Description of the bird and its injuries.

        • Exact location where you found the bird.

        • Your contact information.

      7. Keep the Bird Safe Until Help Arrives:

      • If instructed to transport the bird, do so gently in the same secure container.

      • Drive carefully to avoid further stress or injury.

    1. Assess the Situation:

      • Observe from a distance to determine if the bird is truly injured (e.g., unable to fly, limping, or showing visible wounds).

      • If it is entangled (e.g., fishing line or netting), approach cautiously.

    2. Approach Carefully:

      • Injured waterfowl may panic and try to escape. Move slowly and avoid loud noises or sudden movements.

      • Wear gloves and use a towel or blanket to protect yourself and prevent further injury to the bird.

    3. Contain the Bird Safely:

      • Gently wrap the bird in a towel or blanket to restrain its wings.

      • Place it in a ventilated box or pet carrier lined with soft material (e.g., a towel or paper towels).

      • Keep the container in a quiet, warm place away from pets and people.

    4. Do Not Feed or Give Water:

      • Feeding or hydrating the bird can do more harm than good. Wait for instructions from a licensed rehabilitator.

    5. Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator:

      • Call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately for advice and assistance.

      • You can also contact the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RI DEM) for guidance or referrals.

    6. What to Report:

      • Describe the bird's condition, species (if known), and location where it was found.

    7. Keep the Bird Calm:

      • Minimize handling and interaction to reduce stress.

    1. PLEASE DO NOT TOUCH RABIES VECTOR SPECIES (Notice from the Wildlife Clinic of RI)

      In Rhode Island, all species of bats, woodchucks, and all members of the order Carnivora (which includes (but is not limited to) skunks, foxes, raccoons, bobcats, coyotes, weasels, mink, bear and seals) are considered to be Rabies Vector Species (RVS). If you come across an individual of any of these species that you think may be in need of assistance, please do not touch them with bare hands. Any bare-handed contact may be considered an "exposure" by the RI Department of Health and the animal would be required by law to be euthanized and submitted for rabies testing. BEFORE you handle, please contact Wildlife Clinic of RI for instructions at 401-294-6363 or contact the RI DEM at 401-222-3070. For marine mammals (including seals), please contact Mystic Aquarium at 860-572-5955 x 107.