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Helping Wildlife

The FWC regional offices have a list of wildlife rehabilitators for orphaned or injured wildlife.  An individual can do a lot to help wildlife. Some of these are steps to avoid harming wildlife, while other steps are more proactive. For each step, we provide links to additional information.

1. Generally if you find a baby animal it is best to leave it alone. Often the animal is not orphaned, and the parent may be out getting food for the animal, or watching the baby. Never pick up baby animals and remove them from their natural environment! Additional information on orphaned animals is available from the Wildlife Resources Handbook.

2. Do not feed wildlife. Feeding animals such as deer, raccoons, or alligators may cause them to concentrate on food provided by humans such that they become a nuisance or a threat to people. If you have pets and feed them outdoors, don't leave their food outside. You may attract unwanted raccoons or other animals. Oregon State has more information as does The Wildlife Rescue Association.

3. Maintain a bird feeder for resident and migrant birds. It's a great way to learn about birds and their behavior. Plus the birds will appreciate it! The Wild Bird Center has information as does the National Bird Feeding Society. Cornell University also offers a nice overview of bird feeding.

4. If you have cats or dogs do not allow them to be a nuisance to wildlife. Free ranging domestic animals, particularly cats, will capture and harm birds, lizards, small mammals, and other wildlife. We have more information about Domestic Cats and the "Cat Indoors web site" provides information.

5. Please, do not litter! Animals can become tangled or trapped in products such as plastic, fishing line, cans, jars and bottles. On the beach, these products can harm sea turtles and the Center for Marine Conservation organizes a coastal cleanup.

6. Continue to be educated about wildlife in Florida. The Wildlife Resources Handbook has information about conservation issues and the FWC web site has further information about wildlife viewing and about the Florida Wildlife magazine. The Florida Wildlife Federation and the local Audubon Society Chapter also have more information.

7. You may also support wildlife financially by buying a specialty car license plate, or adding a dollar to your vehicle registration.

8. Finally you may volunteer information Report wildlife law violations.