FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What should I do if I find injured wildlife?
Animals will often be more aggressive if they are injured. Be extremely cautious when approaching any injured wildlife. Bats, foxes, raccoons and skunks cannot be rehabilitated due to the possibility of rabies and should not be handled. Wildlife Enforcement should be contacted for any injured deer or black bear at 1-800-662-7137, or (919) 707-0040 for Wake County. If an injured animal is found and you know the number of a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in your area, call them for help. Or see Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator for more information. You may also contact your local veterinarian for the name of a rehabilitator in the area, or to ask if they would be willing to help. You can also call the Nongame Wildlife Office at (919) 707-0060 or Wildlife Enforcement Communications (919) 707-0040 to obtain the name and telephone number of a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in your area.
Will you come and pick up a dead or a live critter?
The N.C. Department of Transportation will remove dead animals along roads and highways. The Wildlife Commission does not provide dead animal removal service. An exception to this policy is a dead or injured black bear. Biologists collect information on a dead or injured bear and will remove the animal. Biologists are interested in examining sick or recently deceased sick deer for diseases and will respond to collect information on these deer, however biologists do not respond to cases where a deer has been shot or hit by vehicles. Injured hawks and owls may be delivered or referred to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for treatment.