Wildlife Emergency?
Get Fast, Trusted Help for Orphaned, Injured or Sick Animals
Know exactly what to do, who to contact, and how to protect both yourself and Virginia’s native wildlife in urgent situations.
1. Observe From a Distance First
Before approaching, watch quietly from afar. Many young animals — especially fawns and fledglings — are often left alone temporarily while a parent is nearby.
If the animal is not injured and not in immediate danger, it’s usually best to leave it alone.
If the animal is at risk from traffic, pets, people, or predators, you may gently move it a short distance to a safer nearby location.
Use gloves or a towel to minimize contact and protect yourself.
2. Do Not Feed or Give Water
Do not attempt to feed or hydrate the animal. Although it may seem like the right thing to do, it’s one of the most common — and dangerous — mistakes people make.
Weak, injured, or dehydrated animals cannot safely process food or water.
Water can enter the lungs, causing aspiration pneumonia, which can be fatal.
Food can lead to choking, digestive failure, or severe infections.
If you suspect dehydration or shock, the safest thing you can do is to keep the animal warm, quiet, and in a dark place until you reach a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
3. Minimize Handling
Wild animals experience extreme stress when handled.
Only handle the animal if it’s necessary for safety.
Wear gloves or use a towel to gently place it in a ventilated container, such as a box with air holes or a pet carrier.
Keep the container in a warm, dark, quiet area, away from children, pets, and noise.
4. Do Not Try to Care for the Animal Yourself
Caring for wildlife without training can cause long-term harm — even if the animal appears to recover.
It’s illegal in most states, including Virginia, to keep or rehabilitate wildlife without proper permits.
Improper care can interfere with the animal’s ability to survive in the wild.
5. Contact a Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator Immediately
Contact a professional as soon as possible for guidance.
Call or text Roanoke Wildlife Rescue at 540-330-6119.
When you call, be prepared to share:
The species (if known)
The animal’s condition
The exact location where you found the animal
Follow the rehabilitator’s instructions carefully. They determine whether the animal needs transport or can safely remain where it is.
6. Keep the Animal Safe Until Help Is Available
While waiting for professional guidance:
Limit noise, light, and handling.
Do not allow children or pets near the animal.
Avoid checking on it frequently, as this increases stress.
Why These Steps Matter
Wild animals hide illness and injury well. Stress, improper handling, and feeding can quickly turn a survivable situation into a fatal one. By staying calm, minimizing contact, and contacting a licensed rehabilitator, you give the animal its best chance at recovery and release back into the wild.
For more species specific information, please visit
“I Found a Baby Wild Animal”
“I Found an Adult Wild Animal”
Roanoke Wildlife Rescue DOES NOT Admit the Following Animals
Birds - contact Help Wild Birds at 540-342-4890
Deer
Domestic Animals
If you need help with a species that Roanoke Wildlife Rescue is not able to accept, please click on the button below for the complete list of licensed wildlife rehabilitators in Virginia.