Ask yourself the following:

• Is it injured?
• Is it cold?
• Is it lethargic, inactive, or uninterested in its surroundings?
• Did you find it near a dog or cat?
• Are there dead siblings/parents near by?
• Are there flies around it?
• Is it a naked or partially feathered baby bird?
• Is it in imminent danger?

If you answered yes to ANY of these questions, take the following steps:

• If it is safe to do so, place the animal in a softly-lined covered box with ventilation.
• Place the box in a warm, dark, quiet indoor location, away from all humans and pets.
• Sick, injured or orphaned wildlife will often need heat. Too much heat is as bad as not enough. In a pinch, a pop bottle or water bottle with hot water can be used, wrapped in a t-shirt material and put in with the animal.
• Do not use towels for bedding. The weave is too loose. It comes undone easily and the threads can wrap around legs, wings and necks with dire consequences.

Do not attempt to give any animal food or water!

The animal may appear hungry, but feeding a weakened animal or providing the wrong diet could cause irreversible complications that could further compromise the animal's condition.

If you are unsure or need further advice please contact a wildlife rehabilitation organization in your area.