Learn crucial steps for aiding injured wildlife and how to safely contact Hilary, Harry, and Friends Wildlife Rescue. Empower yourself with the knowledge to help local wildlife in need.
Encountering an injured wild animal can be a distressing experience. For those of us in Oldham, where the urban sprawl meets woodlands and natural wildlife habitats, the chances of encountering wildlife in need are always present. Hilary Harry and Friends Wildlife Rescue is a haven for these creatures in need and we want to offer a guide on how to act when faced with an animal in distress. Your knowledge and actions can make a life-saving difference.
Let's explore the steps you should take to aid our furry and feathered neighbours responsibly…
1. Assess the Situation Safely
Safety is paramount. Before approaching, ensure you're not in harm's way or causing undue stress to the animal. Evaluate the scene for traffic, the animal's potential to feel threatened, and environmental risks. If the situation seems hazardous, do not engage, and call for professional help immediately.
2. Observe the Animal
Take a moment to observe the animal. Signs of injury may include visible wounds, limping, or difficulty flying. Sometimes an animal may be in shock and not showing obvious signs of injury. If the animal is a young one, ensure it's actually in need of help; some species leave their young alone temporarily.
3. Minimise Stress
Wild animals are not accustomed to human interaction and can become very stressed, which can worsen their condition. Keep noise and movement to a minimum, maintain a safe distance, and refrain from touching the animal unless absolutely necessary.
4. Contact a Trusted Rescue Organisation
If the animal is indeed injured, it's time to call in the experts. Contact a charity like Hilary, Harry, and Friends Wildlife Rescue and provide them with details about the location, type of animal, apparent injuries, and any immediate care you’ve given.
5. Contain the Animal if Advised
If the rescue team instructs and you have the proper resources, you may need to contain the animal. A cardboard box with ventilation, lined with a soft cloth, can serve as temporary housing. Keep the animal in a warm, dark, and quiet area to reduce stress until help arrives.
6. Transporting the Animal
Transporting an injured wild animal should be left to professionals. The rescue team is equipped with the knowledge and tools to do this without causing further injury or stress.
7. Waiting for Instruction
After alerting the rescue team, follow their guidance. They may provide additional instructions or ask you to monitor the animal until their arrival.
The actions you take when you encounter injured wildlife are vital. While it's important to be prepared to act, the best support you can provide is often calling on the expertise of wildlife rescue services. Your compassion and the specialised care from the experts at Hilary, Harry, and Friends Wildlife Rescue can ensure the best outcome for our native wildlife.
Supporting Wildlife Rescue Efforts
Beyond immediate rescue efforts, consider supporting wildlife conservation more broadly. Whether through volunteering, educational outreach, or donations, your involvement can significantly impact the welfare of Oldham's wildlife.
Contact Gemma today on 07534 290359 to see how you could help!
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