Join today and get outside at one of our 60+ wildlife sanctuaries. New Individual and Family memberships are just $35! Start your membership
Join today and get outside at one of our 60+ wildlife sanctuaries. New Individual and Family memberships are just $35! Start your membership

Site Alert Apr 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 rabies—if 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 >