What to Do If You Find Injured or Orphaned Wildlife

Coming across an injured or orphaned animal can be worrying, but the right actions can make all the difference. If you find a wild animal in distress, follow these steps to give it the best chance of survival.

Step 1: Assess the Situation

🧐 Is the animal in immediate danger? (Near a road, under attack, exposed to extreme weather?) If so, carefully move it to a safer spot if you can do so without harm.

🦘 Is it truly orphaned? Some baby animals, like fledgling birds, may appear abandoned when they are actually learning to fly under a parent's watchful eye. If you're unsure, give us a call before intervening.

Step 2: Keep It Safe

• Handle with care - Wildlife can be scared and stressed, so use a towel or blanket to gently pick them up if necessary.
• Place in a quiet, dark, and warm environment - A ventilated box lined with soft fabric is ideal.
• No food or water - Giving food or water can sometimes do more harm than good. Wait for expert advice.

Step 3: Call for Help

📞 Contact Marlu Furbabies and Friends or your local wildlife rescue as soon as possible. The sooner an animal receives professional care, the better its chances of recovery.

🚗 If safe to do so, you can transport the animal to us, or we may be able to arrange for a rescuer to pick it up.

Special Cases: What to Do

🐨 Koalas - If a koala is on the ground and doesn't move when approached, it likely needs help. Injured koalas can be lethargic, limping, or have a brown, dirty-looking bottom (a sign of disease). Call us immediately.

🦉 Birds - If you find a young bird with fluffy feathers on the ground, it may have fallen from its nest. If it's uninjured, try placing it back in a nearby tree. If it seems weak or injured, keep it safe and call us.

🦘 Joeys - If a kangaroo or wallaby has been hit by a car, always check the pouch for a baby. If you find one, gently place it in a warm, fabric-lined box and call us. Do not remove it from the pouch unless necessary.

🦇 Bats - Never handle a bat with bare hands. If you find an injured bat, contact a trained rescuer.

🐍 Snakes & Reptiles - Do not attempt to handle snakes or large lizards. If you find one in distress, call a licensed reptile rescuer.

Together, We Can Help Our Wildlife!

Every rescue makes a difference. By acting quickly and safely, you can give injured animals the best chance at recovery and release back into the wild. If in doubt, just give us a call - we're always happy to help!