Step 2: How to safely capture and transport an injured baby raccoon

Step 2: How to safely capture and transport an injured baby raccoon.

Every effort should be made to reunite the baby or babies with their parents. Since raccoons are nocturnal, they may not return for their young until after nightfall. If the babies appear healthy, they can be left in a box lined with t-shirts or soft cloths with a heat source such as a hot water bottle and placed close to where they were found. The area should be left alone, free of dogs and people to give their mother time to return. Do not attempt to feed the baby or give it water. If the mother has not retrieved her baby or babies by the next morning, they should call Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center at 303.823.8455 for directions to transport the baby raccoon to the center.

To transport the animal place the raccoon in an animal transport carrier lined with soft t-shirts or towels. Place the animal on the floor of the car and drive slowly and safely to Greenwood. While you are driving you should be aware of sudden turns and stopping. These harsh motions can be dangerous for injured and orphaned animals. Cover the carrier with a blanket or towel. Be sure to keep noise at a minimum, which means no radio and very little talking. Small children are often very excited to save and transport a rescued animal but it important that they know that the animals need silence.

Continue to: Step 3

Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3