Do NOT bring injured or orphaned wildlife to Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuaries.

Alert Date: April 15, 2021

Important 

Mass Audubon CANNOT accept wildlife or other animals from the public—we are legally prohibited from doing so.

Do NOT drop-off orphaned or injured wildlife at Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuaries. 

Learn more about wildlife situations >


What to do if you encounter sick, orphaned, or injured wildlife


First, assess the situation. 

  • If you find a bird, determine if it's an injured adult bird or a baby bird unable to fly yet.
  • Remember, most mammals are susceptible to rabiesif you find a sick or injured mammal, stay away and DO NOT attempt to handle or move it. 

If the bird or animal appears truly injured, you should contact a professional wildlife rehabilitator or rescue organization


Species-specific information from MassWildlife


What to do if you find a wild animal that might be sick or injured >