Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation
If you come across an animal that appears to be injured or orphaned, the information below will guide you on what steps to take. Please review and follow these tips carefully, keeping in mind that wildlife regulations may vary depending on your county of residence or business.
Note: Tenafly Nature Center is not licensed to accept or care for injured or orphaned wildlife.
Understanding Wildlife Safety and Rehabilitation
Approaching wild animals should always be done with extreme caution. Even animals that appear helpless or injured can carry diseases or act defensively when they feel threatened. For your safety, and the safety of your children and pets, keep a safe distance from any animal you suspect may be injured or orphaned.
If you determine that an animal is truly in distress, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or your local animal control agency immediately.
When (and When Not) to Intervene
Many people genuinely want to help when they see an animal that seems abandoned or injured. However, in many cases, the animal does not need human intervention. Often, young animals are temporarily left alone while their parents search for food and will reunite later.
As difficult as it can be, the kindest and most natural choice is often to leave the animal alone. Nature’s balance depends on this process—even when it feels harsh. Not every animal is meant to survive to adulthood, and this cycle plays an essential role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
If intervention is necessary, always contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. These trained professionals have the facilities, medical resources, and expertise to care for wildlife properly. Because most rehabilitators are volunteers, you may need to transport the animal yourself, but always call ahead for instructions.
Please remember: It is illegal to keep or care for wild animals without proper state or federal permits.
Preventing Human–Wildlife Conflicts
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You can help protect wildlife, and yourself, by following these practical prevention tips:
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Do not feed wildlife. Feeding can cause dependency and aggressive behavior.
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Feed pets indoors, and never leave pet food outside.
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Keep pets indoors or under direct supervision when outdoors.
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Secure your home by keeping windows, doors, and vents closed or screened.
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Inspect for nests before pruning trees, cleaning gutters, or doing home repairs.
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Use wildlife-proof garbage containers and always dispose of trash responsibly.
Local Wildlife Rehabilitators
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Consult the following links for local wildlife rehabilitator listings and locations:
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Wildlife Rehabilitators in NJWildlife Rehabilitators in NJ
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Wildlife Rehabilitators in NYWildlife Rehabilitators in NY
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Franklin Lakes Animal Hospital is a veterinary hospital (not a licensed wildlife rehabilitator) that accepts and transports injured or orphaned wildlife.Franklin Lakes Animal Hospital is a veterinary hospital (not a licensed wildlife rehabilitator) that accepts and transports injured or orphaned wildlife.