Here are some basics that should be considered when you come across an injured or orphaned animal: The first question that you must answer is "does this animal really need my help?"

• Is a serious injury apparent (unable to walk, run, climb, or fly)? In these cases the animal does need your help.

• If no injury is apparent, has the parent had an opportunity to reclaim its young, with no people around?

• Do not remove a young animal from its surroundings unless you know that its mother is dead or the animal cannot fend for itself.

• Well intentioned people often "kidnap" young wildlife without realizing that mothers often leave their babies alone for 4-6 hours.

• If baby birds have fallen from their nest, you can put them back. Their mother will not reject them. If the whole nest falls from the tree, you can put it back, but try for the same spot.

• When you decide to help, remember wildlife in distress needs protection from children, domestic pets, and curious people. Unnecessary handling and observation causes stress and stress kills!  If you are unsure how to handle any wild animal, do not attempt to do so.  Wild animals can be dangerous if handled inappropriately.  Contact us for instructions.

• You may put a small bird into a paper bag with paper towels or cloth in the bottom for stability and warmth. Mammals need to be placed in an appropriate carrier with padding for warmth.  Please do not attempt to feed or give water to wildlife: inexperienced "help" can be fatal.

• Keep the animal in a warm, dark, quiet place and contact us  as soon as possible on (530) 885 0862  at any time to make arrangements to transfer the animal to our experienced rehabilitators.