Rules of Rescue
Their are several rules for rescue that will help you recognize animals in need and treat them appropriately. First, remember:

• Don't be a wildlife kidnapper! Most "orphaned" babies are unnecessarily taken from their parents because animal parents will not show themselves while humans are near.
  
• Don't take an animal from its nest just because you have touched it. The scent of human hands does not disturb most animal parents.
  
• If your domestic pet is a threat to a wild animal and/or its young, remove the dog/cat from the area rather than "rescuing" wildlife that is not injured or in danger from another predator.
  
• Don't rescue a young animal if you can place it in or near its nest. Most parents will resume care after you leave. If you are uncertain of the best replacement strategy, call a wildlife rehabilitator for instructions.
  
• Don't be tempted to raise orphaned wildlife yourself. Your best intentions can complicate its condition and/or be fatal. Knowledge of proper diet, feeding techniques, housing, and handling is essential. Cow milk, domestic animal milk, and human milk should never be fed to wildlife babies. These typicall cause intestinal problems and may even lead to death. Even cute baby wild animals may also carry potential threats to humans in the form of hunting instincts, parasites, and diseases, so always call HWRC at (615)799-8712, or another wildlife rehabilitator for help.

That said, do rescue a wildlife baby if its parent is known to be dead, it is injured or in obvious danger, or it is cold/listless. If you are uncertain about a situation, always call a wildlife rehabilitator before rescue.

Immediate Care

If you have determined a wildlife baby is in need of help, follow these steps:

• Pick the animal up gently using garden gloves or a towel, especially with older babies who may bite.
  
• Place the baby animal in a box with air holes and a lid. A box only slightly larger then the animal increases security and decreases stress. Keep the box in a warm, quiet, dark place.
  
• Do not feed or give any liquids.
  
• Keep handling at a minimum. Wildlife babies can die from the stress of capture and human handling.
  
• Contact a wildlife rehabilitator as a soon as possible. Referral sources for the wildlife rehabilitation center nearest you include Harmony Wildlife at (615)799-8712, your veterinarian, the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere, local humane societies, or the TN Wildlife Resources Agency, at 1-800-624-7406.