I Found a Mammal, Now What?

Baby mammals often appear to be orphaned when in fact they are not. Many species of mammals will leave their babies safely hidden while they are out searching for food. If you suspect a baby mammal is orphaned, patiently and unobtrusively observe it in an effort to determine if it truly needs help.

A baby animal's best chance for survival is to be raised by its natural parents. It is imperative that you make every effort to reunite the parents with their children before considering removing the orphan from the wild.

Remember that the parents will not reject their babies just because you have touched them. They may, however, abandon the babies if you remain too close or keep them away too long.

What to Do

First determine whether the animal is sick, injured, or orphaned. Look for signs of injury such as shivering, bleeding, or dislocated limbs. If you've seen the animal attacked by a cat or dog then there is probably some type of injury or cause for concern. Watch the animal closely but from a safe distance.

If the animal is injured, see the instructions at the bottom of the page.

If the animal appears to be fine, check to see whether the animal has a visible nest or den, and whether the home is intact.

If the animal's home is intact and the animal is not injured, gently pick the animal up with a towel, t-shirt or gloves and gently place the animal back in their home.

Leave the animal and watch closely for 4-6 hours to determine whether the parents are returning. Some animals, such as raccoons, should be left overnight.

If the parents do not return, or the animal needs help...

If the animal is showings signs of injury, or the parents do not return, please call Greenwood Wildlife at (303) 823-8455 to discuss what you observe and to decide with a rehabilitator if the animal you see needs help.

If you determine that an animal needs to be brought to our facility, please follow these instructions for capturing and transporting animals.