The First Priority
PROVIDING WARMTH TO WILD BABIES
If you find a wild baby (either a bird or mammal) out of its nest, do not attempt to give it anything to eat or drink.
First, make sure it remains warm until it can receive care or be returned to its nest. Baby animals must be warm to the touch, but not hot.
Make a temporary nest using a stocking cap, or a small bag or box lined with soft cloth. Then provide a source of warmth.
Here are two good ways to keep the babies warm:
1. Fill a water bottle with very hot water and slip it into a fuzzy sock. The outside of the sock should feel comfortably warm to your touch. Refill the bottle with hot water as often as necessary. If using a water bottle, make sure it does not leak water, and that it does not roll onto the babies.
2. Activate a hand warmer and slip it inside a fleece glove, then put the glove inside the “nest.”
Check the heat source often to make sure it is providing warmth to the baby. Both chilling and overheating are dangerous to young animals. Once the baby is safe and warm, contact a licensed rehabilitator for advice. Remember, every situation is different.
For more information, watch our video, below:
Providing Supplemental Heat and Safe Transportation
Last modified: May 13, 2020
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