What do I do if I have found an Adult Mammal...
The Schuylkill Center Wildlife Clinic cannot admit deer, raccoons, foxes,
groundhogs, bats, coyotes, or skunks. If you need assistance with one of these
species, we can direct you to the appropriate facility, or check the PA
Association of Wildlife Rehabilitators website for other options in your area:
PAWR.com
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That has been injured?
Call your nearest Wildlife Rehabilitator for specific instructions on how
to handle the animal's particular circumstances. Do not attempt to
approach or handle an injured animal until you have spoken with a wildlife
rehabilitator. Remember that adult animals in particular will see you as a
threat even if you mean to help, and can be very aggressive when they feel
threatened. Animals such as raccoons, skunks, bats, groundhogs and foxes
are also all potential carriers of rabies, so caution is critical. Once a
wildlife rehabilitator gives you the go-ahead to catch and transport an
injured animal, be sure to avoid direct contact with the animal by wearing
thick gloves and never try to feed or water the animal unless you have
been specifically told to do so.
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Behaving strangely?
One common 'strange' behavior is for a normally nocturnal animal to be out
in daylight. This is not necessarily unusual and does not always signal
that the animal is sick or diseased. If the animal looks otherwise normal
and seems to be purposefully going about its business, it is probably ok
and should ideally be left alone to continue its activities. Nocturnal
means the period of greatest activity, not exclusive activity. Be sure
that domestic pets are fed indoors and garbage is tightly sealed to ensure
wild animals will keep a safe distance from your house.
If, on the other hand, the animal seems dazed, confused, glassy-eyed,
stumbling, overly aggressive or overly friendly, there is a problem. Keep
pets and children in the house and contact your local animal control
officer, game commission, or wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.
A mammal should be taken to a wildlife rehabilitator for immediate assistance
if...
DO NOT attempt capture until you speak to a Wildlife Rehabilitator
- It is staggering, collapsed, unconscious, or convulsing
- Its eyes are crusty, glassy and/or appear unable to see
- It is bleeding or has a broken limb
- It has been attacked by a dog or cat
- It is caught or entangled in debris