Wildlife

Wildlife Rescue Operations and Welfare

Wildlife rescue and first aid for injured animals is a critical welfare intervention but requires skill and knowledge to be effective.

Key Facts

The RSPCA receives over 1 million calls about wildlife each year in the UK
Improper first aid attempts can cause additional harm to injured wildlife
Many injured birds and mammals die from shock during rescue rather than from their injuries
Specialist wildlife rescue centres have expertise and facilities that exceed general veterinary practice
Hedgehog and bat rescuers require specific knowledge to provide appropriate interim care

Welfare Considerations

Wildlife rescue is an important welfare intervention but poorly executed rescue attempts can cause additional suffering. Minimising handling, reducing exposure to human noise and light, and transporting animals in appropriate containers to specialist care reduces stress. Knowledge of local wildlife rescue resources and basic interim care principles enables members of the public to help effectively.

What You Can Do

Know the phone numbers for local wildlife rescue organisations before you encounter an injured animal
Minimise handling of injured wildlife and keep animals quiet and dark during transport
Contact a specialist wildlife rescue centre rather than attempting treatment yourself
Donate to wildlife rescue organisations to support their work
Support training initiatives that build wildlife first aid knowledge in local communities