05/23/2026
Between now and July, you'll probably find a baby animal somewhere on your property. On the lawn, in the garage, under a bush. It will look helpless. It will look abandoned.
Most of the time, it isn't. Here's what to do for each one 🌿
🐦 Baby bird — feathered, hopping, alert:
- That's a fledgling. It left the nest on purpose. The parents are nearby, feeding it on the ground. Leave it where it is. If a cat or dog is nearby, move it to the nearest shrub — that's all it needs
🐦 Baby bird — naked, eyes closed:
- That's a nestling. It fell too early. If you can find the nest, put it back. The parents won't reject it — most birds have a poor sense of smell. Human scent on a baby bird is not a problem
🐇 Baby rabbit — fur-lined nest in the lawn:
- The mother visits only at dawn and dusk to avoid drawing predators. Her absence is the protection, not a sign of abandonment. Re-cover the nest gently and mow around it. The kits leave on their own within a few weeks
🐿️ Baby squirrel — on the ground:
- Place it near the base of the nearest tree. The mother usually retrieves it within a few hours. If it's cold, keep it warm in a soft cloth near the tree. If she hasn't come back by evening, contact a wildlife rehabilitator
🦌 Fawn — lying alone in grass:
- The mother left it there deliberately. Fawns are nearly scentless and lie motionless — that's their defense. She returns to nurse a few times a day. Don't touch it, don't move it. If it's still there after 24 hours with no sign of the mother, then call a rehabilitator
🐢 Baby turtle — crossing a road:
- Carry it to the side it was heading toward. Don't relocate it to a "better" spot — she knows where she's going. Never carry a turtle by the tail
For anything else — injured, visibly sick, or a species you can't identify — contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator through your state wildlife agency.
The most helpful thing you can do for most baby animals this season is leave them where they are 🌿
