Wildlife & Science > Helping Injured Wildlife >

If you find a native animal which appears to be sick, injured or truly orphaned - and you want to help - getting the animal to a wildlife rehabilitator is its best chance for survival. Here are some basic facts you should know:

Only a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or rehabilitation facility should handle, and treat a wild animal. Connecticut has an extensive network of organizations, agencies, and individuals who rescue wild animals in need. The primary goal of any wildlife rehabilitator is to increase an animal’s chances of surviving in the wild once the animal is released. Most rehabilitators are volunteers and not government agencies and will appreciate a monetary donation from you to help support the animal that you bring to them. Audubon Greenwich is not licensed by the state to take or rehabilitate sick, injured or orphaned animals.

Do not release animals at the Audubon Center at Greenwich
Wild animals from your yard such as raccoons or squirrels and pets such as turtles and fish cannot be released on Audubon properties. This is a violation of Conecticut DEP policy. These introduced animals will not survive here and will disrupt the balance of the Center’s animal populations.

Wildlife animals are not pets. It is best for both you, and for the animal, to leave the animal in the wild and respect and appreciate it in its natural habitat. It is unlawful to keep native wild animals without a license. Be aware that wild animals can carry diseases that can be harmful to humans.

Orphaned animals are best cared for by their natural parents. The most helpful step you can take is to ensure that the animal is located where its parent will find it. In most cases, baby animals that you find are not abandoned or orphaned. Leave them where they are, and their parents will most likely find them.

Call one of the rehabilitators or services listed below to see if they are able to take the animal.

The Wildlife Rehabilitation Information Directory is an excellent web site with information and dozens of useful links and resources on wildlife rehabilitation.

To Locate Wildlife Rehabilitators in Connecticut

Connecticut Dept. of Environmental Protection Wildlife Division
During office hours: 860-424-3963
24-hour hotline: 860-424-3333
Wildlife Division’s rehabilitator’s list

Meredith Sampson, Director
Wild Wings, Inc.
Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation
Environmental Education
203-637-9822

Wildlife in Crisis
P.O. Box 1246
Weston, CT 06883
(203) 544-9913
email

Click on the "Wildlife in Crisis" name above to visit their web site and find additional information about what to do if you find an injured animal.

To Locate Wildlife Rehabilitators in New York

Contact the New York Wildlife Rehabilitators Council