Wildlife Rescue
What to do if you have found wildlife
Call an Authorized Wildlife Custodian near you!
- In Ontario, Wildlife rehabilitators are authorized by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry to care for injured, sick or orphaned wildlife until they can be released back into the wild. There rehabilitators work in a range of environments, from a larger facility to their own backyard.
- Wildlife rehabilitation centres differ from sanctuaries in that the animals are only in care temporarily- they are admitted from the wild because they needed medical attention, and will be returned to the wild. Whereas, sanctuaries provide long term living environments for animals which require permanent care.
- People who are transporting or keeping wildlife for less than 24 hours for the purpose of delivery the wildlife to a veteran or to wildlife custodian can do so without authorization.
- A wildlife custodian may house and provide rehabilitation or care to game wildlife or speciality protected wildlife, as specified by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act.
- A veterinarian may temporary house game or specially protected wildlife without a wildlife custodian authorization only for the purpose of providing medical care. They require a wildlife custodian authorization to house wildlife for the purpose of rehabilitating and releasing wildlife.
We Can Help!
Humane societies and animal control locations are not always equipped for wildlife and may put them down if you take them there. Always Ask!
Freedom Fur Animal Rescue is equipped to rehabilitate and release wildlife in accordance to the Ministry of Natural Resources. Our rescue can provide short or long-term care for wildlife in need. If you have found an animal that requires attention, call now. Below is a guide to help determine the care needed and how to assess the situation. Remember to stay calm, and approach the situation as safely as possible. Never put yourself at risk. Ask for Help! Avoid feeding or providing care before speaking to authorities as it could cause harm.
Any Questions?
Contact us!
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Determining the Help?
It is important to first determine if the animal is in need of help.
Orphan/ Young: It is common for mothers to leave their young when foraging for food, developing shelter or scooping the area for danger, new opportunities. Young/ baby animals can be easily misunderstood upon first glance. Keep an eye out for 12-24 hours before assuming the animal is an orphan. A baby will always do better with its mother when possible.
Injured/ Sick: Is the animal hurt? Can you identify the issue? Not all conditions, injuries or diseases are visible. If the animal if showing abnormal signs or behaviours please contact a Wildlife custodian. If immediate care if needed, call now.
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Assessing the Situation?
It is important to create a safe space for you and the animal in need.
Orphan/ Young: Often mothers will leave their youth in areas that are believed to be safe. In some species, they have also been known to leave youth in areas close by buildings to retain heat or near people if resources are near. As long as the animal is sheltered, away from any strong environmental elements, it should be left alone before disturbing. In cases where youth or orphans are in areas which are unsafe, please call immediately to evaluate before moving to avoid any extra disturbance. Tampering with youth can cause fear to mother and child and could lead to abandonment.
Injured/ sick: Is the animal out of environmental elements? Do they have shelter? Avoid coming into contact with the animal as it could be dangerous or contagious. When animals are distressed, they could act out of fear, anger or sadness. Do not put yourself at risk. A wildlife custodian should assist with moving and sheltering the animals. Call now.
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Who to Call?
After determining if the animal is in need of help, and assessing the situation- contact an Authorized Wildlife Custodian nearest to you. If you are unable to reach them, please continue to try and/or contact future rescues. Keep in mind majority of centres are volunteer based and do not receive government funding. They are extremely busy and need your support and understanding when contacting.
DO NOT USE EMAIL REGARDING AN ANIMAL EMERGENCY, CONTACT A WILDLIFE RESCUE BY PHONE.
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