Handling animals

Poor handling can traumatise wild animals.

The following are tips on how to reduce the stress to you and the animal when undertaking a rescue.

1. Prepare a ventilated container or box for the animal in advance. Line the bottom with newspaper and an old towel, jumper or blanket to make it warm and secure.
2. Approach the animal quietly.
3. Scoop it into a towel or jumper by placing the cloth over the animal and encircling its body with your hands. Do this quickly and confidently to prevent the animal struggling and causing further injury and stress. Leave the towel over the animal, as this will help calm it down. Remember that it does not know that it is being rescued and will feel scared and threatened. It is normal for the animal to try to scratch, bite, wriggle, scream and screech. If you are inexperienced at catching animals, use a thick jumper or towel and wear gloves to protect yourself from claws, teeth or beaks.
4. Leave the animal in a covered box in a warm, dark and quiet place away from people and pets. Do not try and comfort the animal. At this point, take the time to find out how to care for the animal correctly.

Last updated: 22 December 2004

Caring for wildlife

• Breeding Live Foods
• Dangers
• First Aid
• Handling animals
• Longer term care
• Permits
• Record keeping
• So you want to be a wildlife carer
• Ways to prevent human-made orphans
• What to do if you find a sick or injured animal