What to do if wildlife need help

Wantage — With the abundance of wildlife in Sussex County, humans occasionally find themselves in a position to care for an injured animal. All too often bears and deer are the topic, but sometimes the smaller creatures need a hand. That’s what writer JoAnn MacDougal found recently when a baby bird needed her help. See her story. She sought advice from Giselle Smisko, a licensed wildlife rehabilitator and the founder of the Avian Wildlife Center in Wantage. Smisko stresses the importance of helping injured animals, specifically birds. “Often a phone call to receive proper instructions is the difference between life and death for these animals,” she said. One common myth dispelled by Smisko is that birds cannot be returned to their nest if touched by human hands. “A mother bird will not reject a baby bird if they have been handled by humans,” she said. “Birds are very good parents and have been known to foster orphaned birds on occasion. Returning a baby bird to its nest is perfectly fine and will not jeopardize the bond with the mother bird.” However, she warns: People should not try to make pets of such birds. “It is illegal to keep wild birds in captivity if you are not licensed to do so,” Smisko said. “Federal and state laws prohibit this to protect all native species for their benefit as well as ours.” Basic rules to follow: Aiding birds in trouble Nestlings If a baby bird has fallen from its nest, make every effort to return it to the nest. The parents will not reject it due to a human scent. If the nestling is injured or you are unable to put it into the nest, keep it warm in a soft cloth in your hands and contact the AWC immediately at 973-702-1957. Injured Adult Birds Carefully pick up the bird so you do not hurt it or yourself. Placing a towel, fishing net or box over the whole bird may be a safer way to restrain some injured birds. Once captured, place it in a box with a towel on the bottom. Never force liquids or food into the bird since this will stress it more. Phone the AWC as soon as possible. For other wildlife: The Division of Fish and Wildlife lists the following area rehabilitators, who can help with animals in need of care. New Jersey, northern region (Layton) 973-948-0037 Linda Mihatov, Wild & Free Specialty: white-tail deer fawns, small mammals, humane education Find tips for rescuing an injured bird at www.roaringrockrest.com/Avian/