Rescue Advice
What if I find an injured animal?
If you find a sick, injured or potentially orphaned wild animal in need of care please contact the Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary as soon as possible at
434-831-2900 or 434-962-7429.
We will be able to advise you to know how best to proceed.
If you are unable to reach us, call the Wildlife Center of Virginia at
540-942-9453.
PLEASE NOTE: Special care should be taken in dealing with high-risk rabies species - such as raccoons, skunks, foxes, bats and groundhogs. Wear gloves and try to guide the animal into a box or crate without picking it up.
To provide temporary care for an animal in need:
- Keep orphaned or injured wild animal warm—baby birds maintain body temperature of 104°
- Wear gloves when handling wild animals; they’re scared and will defend themselves with claws, teeth, and beaks
- Do not attempt to feed or give water to the animal
- Provide animals with a dark, safe and protected place to await a wildlife rehabilitator—cover boxes with pillow cases or napkins
- Reduce stress on the animal by keeping it away from loud noises and the attention of curious onlookers and family pets
- Make sure the animal can breathe with good ventilation holes
- Do not attempt to feed or give water to the animal
Does this animal really need your help?
Many baby animals brought to wildlife sanctuaries are not really "orphans" in need of rescuing. They are often still in the care of their parents, or at a stage in life where they are ready to live on their own. Often the best care you can give a young animal is to leave it alone.
Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary is happy to help you figure out if you should intervene in an animal's care. Please call us at 434-831-2900 or 434-962-7429 for help.