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If You Care, Leave Them There
Helping wildlife starts with knowing when to step back
Many animals brought to us each year were exhibiting normal behavior that was perceived as distressful. Before rescuing an animal, please read the guidance below to make sure it truly needs help.
Species We Cannot Accept
Shasta Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation, Inc. cannot take possession of Bears, Mountain Lions, or adult Deer. For assistance with these animals, contact:
CA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife
For bears, mountain lions, and adult deer.
530-225-2300 or [email protected]
Found a Baby Mammal?
If you find a baby mammal (bunnies and fawns are common) seemingly alone, please leave it there or put it back. Mom leaves them alone for much of the day and will return.
Baby mammals are often mistaken for orphans when they are simply waiting for their mother. Intervening can actually prevent the mother from returning.
Damaged or Destroyed a Nest?
If you unwittingly destroy a bird or squirrel nest, put the babies in a box and attach the box to a nearby tree using a bungee or rope. Once the parents determine it is safe, they will return:
Squirrels
Mother squirrels will gather their babies and take them to a secondary nest.
Song Birds
Parents will feed the babies while they finish growing up in the box.
Owls & Hawks
Baby raptors will exit the box and climb the tree to reunite with their parents, or the parents will care for them in the box.
Found a Baby Heron?
If you find a baby heron alone but in a safe area, leave them there. Herons are not known for their nest construction abilities and their nests commonly fail, leaving the baby on the ground. Mom will likely return and care for the baby while she rebuilds her nest.
Found a Feathered Bird on the Ground?
If you find a fully feathered little bird hopping on the ground, please leave it alone. Take a picture and contact Raven at 530-355-8473 so the bird can be assessed over the phone.
Some birds fledge from the nest and spend time on the ground as a normal part of development, but many do not. We need to see the species to determine if the behavior is normal.
How Can You Help?
Take a Photo or Video
If you are unsure about what to do, taking a picture or video of the animal will help us assess the situation when we call you back.
Truly Orphaned or Injured?
If you are certain the animal is orphaned or injured, check our Find a Critter page for instructions on what to do next.
Support Our Mission
Consider donating supplies like toilet paper (for nest-making), paper towels, nuts, or items from our Wish List.
Still Not Sure? Call Us.
Our Wildlife Rescue Hotline is available 365 days a year: 530-365-WILD (9453)