their parent(s). If they are injured, sick, or cold they need care. Do not try to raise the animal on your own, always contact a licensed rehabilitator. If you do need to capture a juvenile animal for transport to a rehabilitation center, prepare ahead of time, and be as gentle as possible. Have a carrier or box ready, there should be enough room for the animal to move a bit, but not so much they can hurt themselves. Line the carrier or box with fabric (avoid things with threads, loops, strings, or carpet: animals can get caught or ingest), and cover any areas the animal can see out of. This creates a "den" the animals can feel hidden and secure in. Be sure to wear gloves when handling wildlife, all animals are capable of hurting you, no matter their size or age. Only use nets, sheets, towels, or pillowcases to catch the animal. When restraining the animal be firm, but do not hinder breathing. Be mindful of any visible injuries (do not grab by their injured wing, leg, etc.) Always cover the animal's head to reduce stress and prevent injury. Minimizing stress is critical, once you have caught the juvenile allow it a little time to recover in its "den". Place the carrier or box a quiet, dark, scent-free place before you do anything further. Engage in as little human contact and handling as possible; the animal likely considers you a predator, and will be further stressed with each interaction. Animals that are young, or badly injured will benefit from a source of warmth. Create a heat source, but never put the source of warmth in direct contact with the animal. Possible heat sources include: a heating pad (on low) under half of the box/carrier, a microwaved small bag (old sock) filled with dry rice or beans, a warm bottle of water, or hand warmer packs placed under bedding. Do not give the animal food or water. Providing the animal with food and water is rarely the top priority and in some cases is to be strongly avoided (when it is injured, emaciated, or cold). Once you have the juvenile set up with a source of warmth in its secluded place, contact your local wildlife rehabilitator for further instructions. Background The field of wildlife rehabilitation varies from small scale operations of individuals working from their homes, usually working with a