Help Wildlife in Disasters

Before Disaster Strikes

Disasters sometimes strike without warning. However, sometimes we have some time to prepare and there are ways you can keep wildlife in mind.

Tips for Severe Storms and Hurricanes

• Before the Storm: Secure outdoor areas, remove debris, and watch for small animals seeking shelter.
• After the Storm: Drive carefully, leave out fresh water and food, and be mindful of displaced wildlife.
• Rescue and Rehabilitation: Contact wildlife rehabilitators for injured animals and consider volunteering with local rescue groups. 

Tips for Heatwaves

• Provide Water: Set up birdbaths and shallow dishes with stones for insects.
• Create Shade: Plant bushes and keep gardens watered.
• Avoid Chemicals: Pesticides and herbicides can be harmful, especially in extreme heat. 

Tips for Wildfires

• Reduce Fire Hazards: Clear brush piles and debris that could trap or endanger animals.
• Set Out Water Dishes: Keep them away from your home to avoid attracting wildlife too close.
• Secure Outdoor Spaces: Close off outdoor enclosures and catios to protect animals.

Include Wildlife in Recovery Efforts

Once the storm subsides or the fires are contained, the world might look a little different. It’s critical to include wild animals in the conversation when paving the road to recovery. 

Create Water Sources

Putting out water stations, such as shallow dishes of water, can be helpful. Displaced animals may struggle to find safe water sources or might just need a chance to cool off during fires or heat waves. Just be sure to keep them away from your home to avoid attracting wildlife too close.

If you have a bird bath or water station, make sure it has shallow water and fill parts with stones or sticks so that insects such as honey and bumblebees don’t drown! It’s also particularly important to change the water regularly to keep it clean and cool.

If You Encounter a Wild Animal in Distress

Don’t assume someone else will help a wild animal in distress. If you see an animal struggling, please contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator right away. Once a wildlife rehabilitator has been contacted, they can give you more specific information on the species and how to best help.

Tips for Immediate Action:

• Hydration and Shade: If safe, provide water and shade to the animal.
• Minimize Handling: Only handle the animal if absolutely necessary and wear gloves.
• Keep Calm and Quiet: Keep the animal in a quiet and calm environment until help arrives.
• Do Not Feed: Avoid feeding the animal as it might require specific dietary needs.

Contact Local and Regional Resources

• Check out the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association’s website for animal-specific resources or AnimalHelpNow for emergency rehabilitators. You can also check out the Wildlife Rescue Directory from OnTheFeeder. 
• Call your local humane society. While they might not be able to help, they can direct you to appropriate wildlife experts—or even have staffers who volunteer to rehabilitate wildlife in their spare time!

Volunteer

You can also volunteer with local rescue groups to help animals recover from the storm. Many organizations work tirelessly to reunite companions with their families and provide temporary shelter for displaced animals. Your time can make a huge difference.

If you’re looking to become a wildlife rehabilitator, many local wildlife centers or organizations offer workshops on wildlife first aid and rescue. You can take an 8-hour RVS training course and receive your rehabilitation license through your state’s DEC website.