Coyotes, bears, deer, skunks, raccoons, birds, bunnies and more. Oh my! As more land gets developed for new businesses and homes, wildlife habitat inevitably shrinks and increases the likelihood for people and wild animals to come into contact.
Be aware that animals thought to be orphans may not need your assistance. Wild animals often leave their young unattended for several hours or more. Your being too close may also keep them at a distance.
No matter what wildlife issue you have come across, always be cautious! Keep children and pets away. Never touch any wild animal unless absolutely necessary. Wear thick gloves if you must touch the animal. A bite or scratch from an infected mammal puts you at risk for rabies. If an animal appears to be stumbling, staggering, walking in circles, injured, or acting strangely, immediately call your local animal control officer, police department or CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Dispatch (860-424-3011) for assistance.
Wild animals can be dangerous. Their behavior is often unpredictable. Do not attempt to rescue a potentially dangerous animal without assistance from someone with experience.
The Connecticut Humane Society does not handle wildlife. If you encounter a wild animal that might need help, or are looking for help managing a problem you are having with wildlife, please use the following resources.
Orphaned, Injured or Sick Wildlife
Assess the situation before going near an animal. Do not intervene unless you are certain that the animal is orphaned, obviously injured or in immediate danger. Here are a few resources from the Tufts Wildlife Clinic to help you determine if assistance is needed:
It is illegal for any person, other than a state licensed rehabilitator, to care for wildlife. In the State of Connecticut, this DEEP page on dealing with distressed wildlife will guide you to the best rehabilitator near you based on the type of animal you have found.
Nuisance Wildlife
Are you experiencing a wildlife issue with damage to your home and/or property, or an infestation? Or maybe you just have a critter who loves rummaging through your trash or snacking on your garden. There are resources that can help. These include: