If you come across a baby bird, rabbit, squirrel, or raccoon this spring or summer, your first instinct may be to help—but wildlife experts say that’s not always the right move.
As baby animal season gets underway across Palm Beach County, Busch Wildlife Sanctuary is reminding residents that many young animals are not abandoned and that knowing when to intervene can make all the difference.
Baby Animal Season: Many Baby Animals Aren’t Orphaned
Each year, well-meaning residents encounter young birds, squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, and other native Florida wildlife and assume they have been abandoned. In reality, that’s often not the case.
Many young animals spend time alone while their parents search for food or wait nearby. Others, such as fledgling birds, naturally leave the nest before they are fully capable of flying as part of their normal development.
Because of this, Busch Wildlife Sanctuary encourages residents to pause and assess the situation before intervening. In many cases, the best way to help is simply to observe from a safe distance and allow nature to take its course.
When Should You Help?
While many baby animals are healthy and under the care of a parent, some do require professional assistance.
Wildlife experts recommend contacting a licensed wildlife rehabilitator if an animal appears injured, orphaned, or in immediate danger. Attempting to feed, handle, or care for wild animals without proper training can unintentionally cause additional harm and may reduce their chances of successful rehabilitation.
If you’re unsure whether an animal needs help, it’s always best to call for guidance before taking action.
Save This Number
If you find an injured, orphaned, or distressed wild animal, Busch Wildlife Sanctuary’s Wildlife Hospital can help determine the best course of action.
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary Wildlife Hospital
📞 561-575-3399
Before approaching wildlife, remember these simple guidelines:
- Observe the animal from a safe distance.
- Look for obvious signs of injury or immediate danger.
- Don’t assume a baby animal has been abandoned.
- Keep pets and children away from the area.
- Call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator before attempting to move or care for the animal.
Supporting Local Wildlife
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary cares for thousands of injured, orphaned, and displaced native Florida animals each year while educating the community about safely coexisting with local wildlife.
The Wildlife Hospital relies entirely on donations to provide lifesaving care for the animals it treats. Residents who would like to support the sanctuary’s mission can make a contribution through the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary website.
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary cares for thousands of injured and orphaned animals each year. For more local news and updates, visit Jupiter Daily.
As baby animal season continues across Palm Beach County, wildlife experts encourage everyone to enjoy observing Florida’s incredible native species while remembering that the best way to help is often to give wild animals the space they need and seek expert guidance when intervention is truly necessary.
