Frequently Asked Questions

CROW receive thousands of calls every year with all kinds of questions. Since there is no such thing as a "stupid question" we thought you might like to read some of our most common questions and the answers that go along with them.

1. What do I do if I find injured wildlife?
2. Why can't I keep the wildlife that I find?
3. I found a baby bird. I don't know what kind he is. What do I feed him?

The first step in the rescue of a wild animal is capture. Many times the finder is that animal’s only chance of getting the help they need. Almost anyone can contain a wild animal with a few simple instructions. Remember, wild animals are easily frightened and may attack once cornered so, most importantly, protect yourself.

• Have a box or animal carrier ready to contain the animal. Garbage cans, recycling bins and even paper bags will work in a pinch depending on the size of the animal. Poke holes into the box for ventilation.
• Many animals are easily captured with a large towel. Approach the animal slowly, holding the towel out in front of you. Once in range, throw the towel over the animal’s head, or entire body if possible. Restrain the head and wrap the towel around the animal. Quickly transfer the animal to a box before they escape.
• If you’re catching a bird, the beak is the first thing you grab and the last thing you release.
• When dealing with small mammals, a thick pair of work gloves can prevent personal injury.
• Do not try to contain an alert, large mammal without expert assistance and special equipment. Rabid mammals can transmit rabies to you through a bite wound.
• A net is very useful when capturing animals that will try to flee or fly. If a body of water is nearby, get between the water and the animal unless you feel like going for a swim.
• Once the animal is contained, transport them to a nearby wildlife hospital ASAP. To decrease the chance of life-threatening stress, minimize noise and movement and keep the animal closed up in the container at all times. The animal should not be able to see out of the container. Do not offer food or water Feeding a dehydrated or injured animal can be fatal.

2. Why can't I keep the wildlife that I find?
Almost all the native and migratory birds and other animals are protected by state and federal laws. It is illegal to possess wildlife unless you have a permit or are a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. These laws are in place to protect wildlife and to insure that the care they receive when they are sick, injured or orphaned is appropriate and adequate for each wildlife species. The ultimate goal of wildlife rehabilitation is always the release back to the wild. Any lesser goal is a disservice to the wildlife we are here to serve.

3. I found a baby bird. I don't know what kind it is. What do I feed it?
Baby birds have varying nutritional requirements dependent on their species. Feeding an improper diet can cause serious development problems such as: weak bones that fracture easily and lack of proper feather growth. If you have found a baby bird, call your nearest rehabilitation center. If you are unable to reach them immediately for advice – Do Not Attempt To Feed Them. Place the baby bird in a small box lined with towels. Keep the baby in a quiet area away from air conditioning, children and pets.

Many pet stores will offer to sell you a baby bird formula. This is not an appropriate diet for most baby birds. Remember that feeding a dehydrated baby bird can be fatal and that water, if not administered correctly, may cause them to drown.

If you do not know of a rehabilitation center or a licensed rehabilitator in your area you can contact the National Wildlife Rehabilitation Association (NWRA). Their site is available on our Links page.