Found Wildlife

Found an Injured or Orphaned Wild Animal?
 

We’re here to help - but the best first step is often a safe, quiet drop-off.

 

If you’ve found a wild animal in need of rescue, please place it gently in one of our Drop Off Boxes located at the front of our facility. These boxes are monitored by staff 24 hours a day, protected from weather and predators, and positioned away from people and pets to minimize stress.

 

Once you’ve placed the animal inside, please fill out the intake form located in the mailbox beside the boxes. This information helps us provide the best possible care as quickly as possible.

 

Thank you for being a voice for Mississippi’s wildlife. Your compassion gives them a chance to heal, grow, and return to the wild.

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Common Rabies Carriers in Mississippi:

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1. Raccoons
   – The primary rabies reservoir species in Mississippi.
   – Often appear healthy but can still be infected.

2. Bats
   – Known to carry rabies across the U.S., including the Gulf Coast.
   – Rabies can be transmitted through very small bites or scratches.

3. Foxes
   – Less common but still considered a rabies vector species.

4. Coyotes
   – While rare, coyotes can become rabid, especially in areas where rabies is endemic.

5. Skunks
   – Mississippi is not currently a skunk rabies variant state, but skunks can still be infected and transmit the virus.

6. Bobcats
   – Rabies cases in bobcats are rare, but they are possible and usually involve unusually aggressive behavior.

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What To Do If You Find Wildlife Acting Strange:

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• Do not touch the animal
• Avoid animals that are aggressive, disoriented, overly friendly, or paralyzed
• Call Wild at Heart Rescue or local animal control
• If handling is necessary (e.g., in a road), use gloves or a towel
• Wash hands thoroughly and seek medical advice if bitten or scratched