How To Capture Injured, Ill, or Orphaned Wildlife
(California-Specific Guidance)
Finding a wild animal in distress can be alarming, and it’s natural to want to help. In California, it’s important to balance compassion with safety and the law. Improper handling can put you at risk, cause further harm to the animal, and—even unintentionally—violate state or federal regulations.
BWR is a rehabilitation organization, not a rescue. Occasionally, our volunteers will help with a capture, but this is not the focus of our organization and we are not staffed to capture all of the animals that we take in.
This guide explains when and how to help, and what California law allows.
First: Know the Law in California
In California:
Before You Capture
Only attempt capture if the animal:
How to Capture Safely (If Advised to Do So)
Protect Yourself
Contain the Animal
What NOT to Do (Very Important)
Special Guidance for Babies
Transporting the Animal
Keep the container quiet, dark, and warm
Place it in a stable area of your vehicle
Transport the animal as soon as possible to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian
The goal is rapid transfer, not home care.
Why This Matters
Wild animals have highly specific needs. Improper handling, feeding, or prolonged captivity—even with good intentions—can cause stress, injury, or death. Licensed California wildlife rehabilitators are trained and permitted to provide appropriate care with the goal of returning animals safely to the wild.
When in Doubt, Make the Call
If something doesn’t look right, trust your instincts—but let a professional guide the next step. Your careful, informed actions help protect wildlife, keep people safe, and ensure animals get the care they truly need.
Finding a wild animal in distress can be alarming, and it’s natural to want to help. In California, it’s important to balance compassion with safety and the law. Improper handling can put you at risk, cause further harm to the animal, and—even unintentionally—violate state or federal regulations.
BWR is a rehabilitation organization, not a rescue. Occasionally, our volunteers will help with a capture, but this is not the focus of our organization and we are not staffed to capture all of the animals that we take in.
This guide explains when and how to help, and what California law allows.
First: Know the Law in California
In California:
- It is illegal to keep wild animals without proper state or federal permits
- Only licensed wildlife rehabilitators may legally provide care, treatment, or long-term housing
- Members of the public may temporarily contain an animal solely for transport to a licensed rehabilitator or veterinarian
- Many birds (including all native songbirds and raptors) are also protected under federal law
Before You Capture
Only attempt capture if the animal:
- Has visible injuries (bleeding, broken limbs or wings)
- Appears ill, weak, or unresponsive
- Was hit by a car or attacked by a cat or dog
- Is a very young baby (eyes closed, hairless or featherless) that is cold or exposed
- Is in immediate danger (roadway, construction site)
How to Capture Safely (If Advised to Do So)
Protect Yourself
- Wear gloves if available
- Use a towel, blanket, or jacket as a barrier
- Never attempt to handle wildlife bare-handed if avoidable
Contain the Animal
- Gently place the animal into a sturdy box or pet carrier
- Line with a soft towel or cloth
- Make small air holes if using a box
- Secure the container and keep it dark and quiet
What NOT to Do (Very Important)
- Do not feed or give water
- Do not attempt first aid
- Do not bathe the animal
- Do not keep the animal overnight unless specifically instructed
- Do not attempt to raise or “rehab” the animal yourself
Special Guidance for Babies
- Fully feathered birds on the ground are usually fledglings and still cared for by parents
- Fawns and baby mammals alone are often intentionally left hidden by parents
- Hairless or featherless babies that are cold or exposed do need help
Transporting the Animal
Keep the container quiet, dark, and warm
Place it in a stable area of your vehicle
Transport the animal as soon as possible to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian
The goal is rapid transfer, not home care.
Why This Matters
Wild animals have highly specific needs. Improper handling, feeding, or prolonged captivity—even with good intentions—can cause stress, injury, or death. Licensed California wildlife rehabilitators are trained and permitted to provide appropriate care with the goal of returning animals safely to the wild.
When in Doubt, Make the Call
If something doesn’t look right, trust your instincts—but let a professional guide the next step. Your careful, informed actions help protect wildlife, keep people safe, and ensure animals get the care they truly need.
Bidwell Wildlife Rehabilitation serves Butte, Colusa & Glenn counties in Northern CA. Here is a list of all licensed rehab facilities in California.
