Never touch an animal before talking to a professional.

Report an Animal

Call or Text TWRC at 208-973-TWRC (8972)

EMERGENCY CONTACTS

  • TETON WILDLIFE REHABILITATION CENTER

    925-640-1055

    When to Call: Immediately if you need rescue support or guidance regarding migratory birds such as a Trumpeter Swan or Sandhill Crane, waterfowl, songbirds, or small mammals.

    TWRC is a licensed non profit wildlife rehabilitation center. We provide compassionate care and release for injured and orphaned wildlife in Idaho. We hold permits from Idaho Fish & Game and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

  • TETON RAPTOR CENTER

    307-203-2551

    When to Call: If you encounter injured, ill or orphaned birds of prey such as hawks, owls, eagles and crows.

    The Teton Raptor Center is a nonprofit in Wilson, Wyoming. They focus on raptor conservation and rehabilitation.

  • IDAHO FISH & GAME

    208-525-7290

    When to Call: For bears, mountain lions, moose, deer, elk or other large wildlife encounters.

    IDFG is also the main contact now for foxes, raccoons, and skunks.

    IDFG is the state agency responsible for protecting and managing Idaho’s wildlife resources. This includes fish, mammals, and birds across both game and non-game species.

    Wyoming Fish and Game: 307-733-2321

What to do if you find an Animal:

A Step by Step Guide

  • Distemper, Rabies and Avian Flu are common in Teton Valley and Teton County Wyoming. Know the signs!

    • Wildlife may carry serious diseases that can spread to humans, pets or other wildlife.

    • Signs to watch for:

      • Staggering, circling or seizures

      • Disorientation

      • Excessive salivation or discharge from nose/eyes

      • Birds with swollen eyes, tremors, or sudden weakness.

      • Visible sores or extreme lethargy

    • What to do:

      • DO NOT TOUCH OR APPROACH the animal.

      • Keep children and pets away.

      • If it is a raptor call Teton Raptor Center 307-203-25551

      • If it is a fox, raccoon, skunk or large game species, call Idaho Fish & Game 208-525-7290

      • For other sick wildlife (songbirds, waterfowl, small mammals) call TWRC for guidance 925-640-1055

    Do not attempt to capture or handle sick wildlife!

    • In spring and summer, it is common to find baby animals that look ‘Abandoned”.

    Many mothers leave their young alone for long periods of time- this is normal.

    • When to Act:

      • If the parent is confirmed deceased.

      • If the young have been alone for over 24 hours.

      • If the animal is visibly injured, weak or in danger.

  • Injuries are often caused by vehicles, window strikes, domestic predators, or other human activity. These animals likely need immediate help but can still pose a disease risk.

    Signs to Watch for:

    • Visible wounds, blood, broken limbs or wings

    • Animal unable to stand, fly or move normally

    • Baby animals left alone for more than 24 hours (or after parent is confirmed deceased) are likely dehydrated and malnourished

    • If animal was caught by a dog or cat there may be serious internal injuries- even without visible wounds.

    What to do:

    • Call TWRC for guidance. Unnecessary human intervention can often make things worse.

    • WEAR GLOVES.

  • If intervention is needed:

    • Do not feed or give water unless instructed by a rehabber.

    • Keep the animal in a warm, dark , quiet place until transport.

    • SAFTEY FIRST. Injured animals can still bite and scratch- always wear gloves.

    • Gently place the animal in a secure, ventilated container lined with a t-shirt or sheet (avoid towels- claws and beaks can get tangled).

    • Do not pet, cuddle or talk to the animal.

    • Imprinting on humans can prevent successful release and death in the wild.

    • Keep children and pets away.

    • When you reach out to TWRC, a photo or short video is extremely helpful (our number can receive texts!)

    • Photos and videos allow us to assess the animals condition and providing immediate guidance.

    • With a call to the right resource- YOU can save a life!