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DID YOU FIND INJURED OR ORPHANED WILDLIFE?
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if a baby/young bird actually needs help?
Not every bird on the ground is injured. Many young birds leave the nest before they can fly and spend several days learning under the watchful eye of their parents. If the bird is fully feathered, hopping, and alert, it’s likely a fledgling—observe quietly from a distance.
If the bird is bleeding, weak, cold, missing feathers, or being stalked by pets, it needs help. Contact SPWRC for guidance.
How can I tell the difference between a nestling and a fledgling?
• Nestlings: Bare or covered in sparse down, eyes may be closed, and they cannot perch or hop. These babies need help if found on the ground.
• Fledglings: Fully feathered with short tails, can perch or hop but can’t fly well yet. Parents are likely nearby—observe before rescuing.
What should I do if I find a baby bird or animal alone?
Observe before intervening. Parents often return within 1–2 hours with food or care. If you’re certain the parents are gone or the baby appears cold, injured, or in danger, gently place it in a small box lined with a soft cloth and keep it warm, dark, and quiet until you can reach us.
Never try to “trap” multiple animals or move an entire nest—this can separate families and make reunion impossible. Always contact SPWRC first for advice.
How can I safely pick up and transport an injured bird or mammal?
If possible, wear gloves and approach the animal slowly. Gently place a towel or light blanket over it to help calm and contain it, then carefully lift it into a secure box with small air holes. If handling a bird, hold its wings gently against its body to prevent further injury. Keep the box closed during transport, and avoid loud noises, talking, or music to minimize stress.
What should I do if I find a nest of baby birds on the ground?
If you find a nest of baby birds on the ground, try to place the nest back in its original location if possible. If not, contact a wildlife rescue for advice on how to proceed.
What if I find an owl, hawk, or other raptor?
Use extreme caution—these birds have powerful talons and beaks. Do not try to handle them unless absolutely necessary for their safety. Call SPWRC for instructions, or contact Animal Control or your local police non-emergency line if the bird is in immediate danger.
What if I see a snake, turtle, or other reptile?
Most reptiles are not injured or dangerous and may simply be passing through. If one appears hurt or trapped, gently guide it into a ventilated container using a towel or stick. Never attempt to handle venomous snakes — contact SPWRC or Animal Control for help.
If you come across a tortoise rather than a turtle, it’s likely not native to West Texas and is most likely an escaped or abandoned pet. Note its location and call SPWRC so we can ensure it’s safely recovered and placed with the proper care.
What should I do if I find an animal after hours?
Place it in a small, ventilated box lined with a soft cloth. Keep it warm, quiet, and in a dark area overnight. Do not feed or give water. Bring it to SPWRC first thing in the morning.
Can I keep the animal and try to care for it myself?
No. Wildlife rehabilitation requires specialized diets, housing, and permits. Keeping native wildlife without a license is illegal and often causes more harm than good. The kindest thing you can do is get the animal to a licensed rehabilitator quickly.
What should I do if my pet brings me a wild animal?
If the animal is alive, place it in a secure box right away and contact SPWRC. Even small wounds or exposure to saliva can be fatal for wildlife. Keep pets indoors until the situation is resolved.
What if I hit an animal with my car?
If it’s safe to do so, stop and check for signs of life. If the animal is still alive, carefully place it in a box and call SPWRC for guidance on how to proceed. Do not attempt to care for the animal yourself.
Is trapping wildlife ever okay?
In general: no. Trapping often separates family groups or results in animals being moved away from their territory, which can be harmful or fatal. We discourage live-trapping except under professional guidance or permit, and always encourage contacting SPWRC or wildlife officials for assistance.
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