Temporary Care Instructions for Wild Animals (Until You Can Reach a Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator)
Finding an injured, ill, or orphaned wild animal can be stressful. While professional care is always the goal, there may be a short period when you need to provide temporary care before the animal can be transferred to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian.
These guidelines are meant for short-term containment only—not treatment or rehabilitation.
Important Legal Reminder (California)
In California:
The Three Priorities: Warm, Dark, and Quiet
Most wild animals need the same three things while awaiting professional care:
1. Warm
2. Dark
3. Quiet
What NOT to Do
These actions can seriously harm wild animals—even with good intentions:
Transporting the Animal
Why Temporary Care Matters
Wild animals are not adapted to human handling. Even short periods of stress can worsen injuries or reduce survival chances. Providing proper temporary care—and transferring quickly to professionals—gives the animal the best chance to recover and return to the wild.
Thank You for Helping Responsibly
Your thoughtful actions truly matter. By keeping wildlife safe, calm, and properly contained, you are giving them the best possible start on the road to recovery.
These guidelines are meant for short-term containment only—not treatment or rehabilitation.
Important Legal Reminder (California)
In California:
- It is illegal to keep or care for wildlife without proper permits
- The public may temporarily contain an animal solely for transport
- Animals should be transferred to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible
The Three Priorities: Warm, Dark, and Quiet
Most wild animals need the same three things while awaiting professional care:
1. Warm
- Place the animal in a small box or carrier
- Line with a soft towel or cloth
- If the animal feels cold or if it is young and does not have all of it’s fur or feathers yet:
- Place the container on a heating pad set to LOW
- Always put a towel between the heat source and the container
- Warm only half the container so the animal can move away if needed
2. Dark
- Keep the container covered and dim
- Avoid checking on the animal frequently
- Darkness helps reduce fear and stress
3. Quiet
- Keep the animal away from people, pets, noise, and activity
- Do not talk to, handle, or interact with the animal
- Stress can be life-threatening for wildlife
What NOT to Do
These actions can seriously harm wild animals—even with good intentions:
- Do not feed or give water
- Do not attempt first aid or medications
- Do not bathe the animal
- Do not allow children or pets to interact
- Do not keep the animal longer than necessary
Transporting the Animal
- Transport as soon as possible
- Keep the container stable and covered
- Avoid loud music or excessive movement
- Do not open the container during transport
Why Temporary Care Matters
Wild animals are not adapted to human handling. Even short periods of stress can worsen injuries or reduce survival chances. Providing proper temporary care—and transferring quickly to professionals—gives the animal the best chance to recover and return to the wild.
Thank You for Helping Responsibly
Your thoughtful actions truly matter. By keeping wildlife safe, calm, and properly contained, you are giving them the best possible start on the road to recovery.
Bidwell Wildlife Rehabilitation serves Butte, Colusa & Glenn counties in Northern CA. Here is a list of all licensed rehab facilities in California.
