It has been a long winter for all of us, wildlife included. Now that spring is here, so is a new batch of newborn wildlife babies. We have experienced an increase of calls for wildlife in attics and around the home.
Orphaned or abandoned wildlife.
Often times when we are called to a site, we either find a pregnant animal or the newborn babies of gray squirrels, skunks, raccoons, and opossums. Removal and care are tricky. We prefer not to eradicate pregnant wildlife or newborn babies but if it is necessary given the situation we will release the animals to the care of a wildlife Rehabilitator. Here is what we suggest if you come across wildlife babies:
- Put the babies in a box, with a soft cloth under them. Be sure the area is warm and dry away from kids and your own pets.
- Call us and we will come and access the situation.
- We work with a licensed and experienced rehabilitator to insure these babies are well taken care of.
DO NOT FEED THEM
Improper feeding can lead to death. Please do not refer to posts on the internet with regards to feeding. Food such as puppy or kitten food along with milk can injury or kill baby wildlife.
The experience of a rehabilitator will insure success. Babies can live as long as 12 hours without food so please contact us immediately upon discovery.
Nests are dangerous.
Now that we have removed the babies and gotten them to a rehabilitator, let’s deal with what was left behind. Nests. We have found nests in attics built into insulation or the eves and can be up to 1-2 feet in diameter. They are often made with hay, straw, and twigs often combined with human materials such as plastic bags, pillow stuffing and other assorted materials they can gather from items in your attic or home.
Nests are dangerous and contain disease and infection:
- 98% of raccoon babies have roundworm at birth
- Birds have bird mites
- Gray squirrels and skunks have fleas and ticks
Once we remove the nests, we sanitize the area and repair or replace insulation as well as any structural damage.
Newborn animals are so cute and tempting to hold and help. Pregnant or new mothers are protective. Do not attempt to handle wildlife at any time, especially in the spring.
Let our trained technicians help you and help the wildlife. Contact us if you would like to learn more about our services and wildlife rehabilitation.
