Wildlife Helpline: 1(801)228-0831
Found an injured or orphaned animal?
Please call our wildlife helpline for immediate assistance (801)228-0831. You can also send a picture by text to this number. Please note that all injured moose, elk, and deer are handled only by Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
Bird Rescue
If you encounter a bird that appears injured, observe it carefully before taking action. Signs that a bird needs help include visible injury, bleeding, inability to stand or fly, flies visible on body or appearing lethargic and easily approched by humans. However, many young birds found on the ground are fledglings learning to fly and don't need rescue—their parents are likely nearby. Never attempt to feed or give water to an injured bird, as this can cause more harm. Instead, gently place the bird in a ventilated box lined with a soft cloth or paper towels, keep it in a dark, quiet, warm location away from pets and people, and contact us immediately at Wasatch Wildlife Center at (801)228-0831.
Time is critical for injured wildlife, so please call ahead before transporting to ensure we can accept the bird and provide you with specific instructions. Remember that caring for wild birds without proper permits is illegal—only licensed rehabilitators like Wasatch Wildlife Center have the training and resources to provide appropriate medical care and give these birds the best chance at returning to the wild.
If you encounter a large raptor or bird of prey or have questions about help with a rescue, please call us immediately at (801)228-0831.
FLEDGLINGS - baby birds that are learning to fly are called fledglings. These baby birds can be on the ground for over a week as they explore and learn to fly. The parents will be hidden but following the fledgling on this journey. Please do not interfere or capture fledglings! If you have a questions about the age of a bird, you can send a picture to us at (801)228-0831 and one of our wildlife experts can help you decide whether or not the bird needs to come into care.
Mammal Rescue
If you encounter a small mammal that appears injured, observe it carefully before taking action. Signs that a small mammal needs help include visible broken limbs, bleeding, inability to move, shivering, obvious wounds, or the presence of flies or maggots on the body. However, many baby mammals found alone are not orphaned—mothers often leave their young for extended periods while foraging for food. Never attempt to feed or give water to an injured mammal, as this can cause more harm. Instead, wearing thick protective gloves for safety, gently place the animal in a ventilated cardboard box lined with a soft cloth or paper towels. Keep it in a dark, quiet, warm location away from pets and people, and contact us immediately at Wasatch Wildlife Center at (801) 228-0831. Time is critical for injured wildlife, so please call ahead before transporting to ensure we can accept the animal and provide you with specific instructions. Important: Never handle bats with bare hands due to potential rabies exposure. For larger mammals such as fox, do not attempt capture or rescue yourself—these animals require expert handling. Call our helpline immediately at (801) 228-0831 to report the location and condition of the animal so we can coordinate appropriate rescue efforts.
Bat Rescue
If you encounter a bat that appears injured or is on the ground, exercise extreme caution. Signs that a bat needs help include being grounded and unable to fly, visible injuries, the presence of flies or maggots on the body, appearing cold or lethargic, or being found during daylight hours. Baby bats that are pink with no fur, have their eyes closed, or are surrounded by flies also need immediate help. CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING: Never touch a bat with your bare hands. Bats are a rabies vector species, and although less than 1% carry rabies, the virus is transmitted through bites and scratches which may be too small to see. Always wear thick leather work gloves when handling bats. To safely contain a bat, place a small ventilated box or container over the bat, then slide a piece of cardboard underneath to capture it. Place a soft cloth inside the box for the bat to cling to, and keep the container in a dark, quiet, warm location away from pets and people. Contact us immediately at Wasatch Wildlife Center at (801) 228-0831 for guidance. If anyone has had direct contact with the bat (touched it, been bitten or scratched, or woken to find a bat in their room), the bat may need to be tested for rabies and you should contact your local health department. Time is critical for injured bats as they often suffer from dehydration, so please call us as soon as possible for specific instructions on transport and care.