n Don't rescue an animal unless injured or orphaned.
n Leave young mammals and birds alone. Restrain people and pets. Observe.
n Nestlings with pinfeathers: Take margarine tub. Puncture with drainage holes. Nail container to tree in shaded spot. Contain children and pets. Watch for at least two hours. If parent doesn't return, call rehabilitator.
n Fledglings (full-feathered, unable to fly): Hide bird back where found; its chances to survive are better. Keep dogs, cats and children away from area for a few days.
If wildlife needs
n Place injured and orphaned animals in cardboard box about three-quarters filled with shredded newspaper.
n Put box in warm, dark, quiet place away from people and pets.
n Don't use heavy blankets or hot lights.
n Call rehabilitator.
Can we keep it?
n Only starlings, house sparrows and pigeons can be kept. Everything else is protected by law.
n If drumming on the gutter, blanket or carpet that part of the gutter they've claimed as their territory.
n Birds can fly out on their own. If one is in the fireplace, capture by putting a box to opening, then release.
n Rodents (e.g., squirrels). Drop a rope from top of chimney opening, so it can climb out.
Under the house
n Ammonia-soaked rags repel adult foxes, skunks, otters, coyotes, etc. Wait until babies are old enough for parents to move or you'll end up with orphans. Loud radio talk shows also work.
Flying into windows
n Foil strips that blow in the breeze may divert birds.
n If a bird picks a fight with its reflection in a window or bumper (and loses): Pick it up. Place in shopping bag and fold the top over. Put in warm, dark, quiet place until there's commotion in the bag (up to three hours). Then take the bag outside before opening.