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:

Wildlife FAQs

Does the Connecticut Humane Society handle wildlife?

No. The Connecticut Humane Society does not provide wildlife rescue or rehabilitation services.

What is the Connecticut DEEP Dispatch phone number?

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Dispatch can be reached at 860-424-3011 for wildlife-related emergencies or concerns.

What should I do if I encounter wildlife near my home?

If you encounter wildlife near your home, keep a safe distance and keep children and pets away. Do not approach, feed, or attempt to handle wild animals unless absolutely necessary.

What animals are commonly involved in wildlife encounters in Connecticut?

Common wildlife encountered in Connecticut includes:

  • Coyotes
  • Bobcats
  • Bears
  • Deer
  • Raccoons
  • Skunks
  • Rabbits
  • Birds
  • Squirrels

Can wild animals carry rabies?

Yes. Mammals such as raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats can carry rabies. A bite or scratch from an infected animal can pose serious health risks.

Is it safe to touch a wild animal?

Wild animals should never be touched unless absolutely necessary. If handling is unavoidable, wear thick protective gloves and avoid direct contact to reduce the risk of injury or disease transmission.

Why should people avoid rescuing wildlife on their own?

Wild animals can behave unpredictably and may become aggressive when frightened or injured. Attempting a rescue without training or experience can be dangerous for both people and animals.

Should I help a baby wild animal that appears abandoned?

Not always. Many wild animals leave their young alone for extended periods while they search for food. A young animal may not actually be orphaned, and human presence can prevent the parent from returning.

How can I tell if a wild animal is truly orphaned?

A wild animal may need help if it is clearly injured, weak, in immediate danger, or if there is strong evidence the parent is deceased or has not returned for an extended period. Assess the situation carefully before intervening.

What should I do if a wild animal appears injured or sick?

If a wild animal appears injured, sick, stumbling, walking in circles, staggering, or behaving unusually, contact your local animal control officer, police department, or the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Dispatch for assistance.

What qualifies as nuisance wildlife?

Nuisance wildlife includes animals causing property damage, entering homes, rummaging through trash, damaging gardens, or creating infestations.

When should I call authorities about wildlife?

You should contact animal control or authorities if:

  • An animal appears injured or sick
  • Wildlife is acting aggressively
  • An animal may have rabies
  • A wild animal poses an immediate safety risk

How can I prevent wildlife problems around my home?

You can help prevent wildlife conflicts by:

  • Securing garbage containers
  • Removing outdoor food sources
  • Protecting gardens
  • Sealing entry points to buildings
  • Supervising pets outdoors