53 - What To Do About An Injured Animal
Have you ever stumbled upon an injured wild animal and wondered what to do? In this episode, I share real-life experiences and practical advice on how to handle these situations. From baby birds that fall out of their nests to injured raccoons and bats in houses, we discuss the best steps to take, the importance of wildlife rescues, and how to ensure both human and animal safety.
Understanding When an Animal Needs Help
Not all wild animals that appear distressed actually require intervention. We break down the signs that indicate whether an animal is truly in need of help or just going through a natural process.
Helping Baby Birds and Nestlings
Bird rescues are among the most common wildlife encounters. Learn how to differentiate between nestlings and fledglings, how to safely return a bird to its nest, and when to call a professional for help.
Injured Mammals: What to Do
From raccoons to rabbits and bats, injured mammals present unique challenges. We cover how to safely contain them, when to call wildlife rescue, and why it’s important not to attempt raising them at home.
Bat Encounters: What You Need to Know
Bats often find themselves inside homes or in distress. We discuss the safest ways to capture and release them, the importance of rabies precautions, and when to seek expert assistance.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Helping Wildlife
-Never feed an injured animal unless instructed by a professional.
-Always observe before acting—parents may still be nearby.
-Call local wildlife rescue organizations for guidance.
Takeaways
-Not all wild animals need rescuing—many are fine on their own.
-Providing shelter and calling a professional is the best approach.
-Safety comes first: Avoid handling animals that may bite or carry diseases.
-Wildlife rehab centers are your best resource when in doubt.
Enjoy nature, but respect its creatures by allowing them to live wild.
https://buzzblossomandsqueak.com/?p=368
Jill’s Links
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod
https://buzzblossomandsqueak.com/?p=361
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4-L2nfGcuE
https://www.raptorresource.org/birdcams
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6f-D2AjeEi0
Jill’s Links
Buzz Blossom and Squeak Website https://buzzblossomandsqueak.com/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/schmern
Blog Headquarters at https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com/
Email the podcast at mailto: jill@startwithsmallsteps.com
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