Found an injured or orphaned wild animal

Assess the situation

Contain safely

Keep warm and quiet

Contact our team

Observe from a distance to confirm the animal is truly injured, sick, or abandoned before taking physical action.

Place the animal gently in a secure, ventilated cardboard box using heavy gloves or a thick towel to prevent stress.

Store the container in a dark, quiet room away from pets, children, and loud noises. Do not offer food or water.

Call our Chelsea facility immediately or submit our intake form for professional veterinary-led instructions.

Species-specific assessment rules

Fledglings vs. nestlings

Fully feathered fledglings on the ground are usually learning to fly under parental care. Unfeathered nestlings require rescue and immediate thermal support.

Professional handling required

Owls, hawks, and falcons possess dangerous talons. Never handle unprotected; cover with a heavy blanket and contact our permitted raptor team.

Mother is nearby

Healthy white-tailed fawns are left alone while mothers forage. Only intervene if visibly injured, calling out continuously, or if the mother is confirmed dead.

Direct intake assessment

Submit details regarding the animal's condition, species, and precise location in Washtenaw County for immediate veterinary evaluation.