Spotting an animal in distress can tug at your heartstrings and make you want to jump into action. But sometimes, our good intentions can cause more harm than good for wild creatures. Understanding the right steps to take can truly make the difference between helping and hurting.
Always contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or local wildlife authority before intervening with any wild animal. This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice.
1. Picking Up Baby Animals Too Soon
That adorable fawn or bunny you spotted alone might not actually be abandoned. Many wildlife parents leave their babies in safe spots while they search for food nearby. The mother usually returns several times throughout the day to care for her young.
Baby animals often remain still and quiet to avoid attracting predators. Picking them up too quickly can separate them from their parents permanently, causing unnecessary stress and reducing their survival chances dramatically.
2. Offering The Wrong Food Or Water
Feeding bread to ducks or offering cow’s milk to a baby squirrel might seem harmless, but these foods can seriously harm wildlife. Different species have very specific dietary needs that human foods rarely meet.
Improper nutrition can cause digestive problems, malnutrition, or even death in wild animals. Water given incorrectly can also be dangerous, especially for young birds or mammals who might inhale it accidentally.
3. Trying To Raise Or Rehabilitate Wildlife At Home
Raising a wild animal requires specialized knowledge, equipment, and legal permits that most people simply do not have. Without proper training, you could accidentally injure the animal or teach it behaviours that make survival in the wild impossible.
Wild animals also carry diseases that can transfer to humans and pets. Licensed rehabilitators have the expertise and resources to give injured or orphaned wildlife the best chance at returning to nature successfully.
4. Approaching Injured Animals Too Closely
An injured animal is often frightened, in pain, and unpredictable. Even normally docile species can bite, scratch, or kick when they feel threatened or cornered. Your presence might also cause additional stress that worsens their condition.
Keeping a safe distance protects both you and the animal. Instead of approaching, observe from afar and contact wildlife professionals who have proper equipment and training to handle the situation safely and effectively.
5. Relocating Animals On Your Own
Moving a raccoon from your yard or a turtle from the road to a random location might seem helpful, but it often creates bigger problems. Animals have established territories, food sources, and shelter that they depend on for survival.
Dropping them somewhere unfamiliar can leave them vulnerable to predators, starvation, or territorial conflicts with other animals. Some species also have strong homing instincts and will dangerously attempt to return to their original location.
6. Keeping Wildlife As “Temporary Pets”
Holding onto a wild animal “just for a few days” can cause serious harm, even with the best intentions. Wild creatures experience extreme stress in captivity, which weakens their immune systems and overall health rapidly.
They also quickly lose their natural fear of humans, making them easy targets for predators or dangerous situations once released. In many places, keeping wildlife without proper authorization is actually illegal and punishable by fines.
7. Ignoring Expert Advice Or Local Laws
Wildlife regulations exist to protect both animals and people from harm. Ignoring guidance from trained professionals or breaking wildlife laws can result in legal consequences and put animals at greater risk.
Experts understand animal behaviour, disease risks, and proper care techniques that most people lack. Following their advice ensures the animal receives appropriate help while keeping you safe from potential injuries, infections, or legal trouble down the road.
