I found a wild animal baby that seems “abandoned”. What should I do?

By: Sofía Milla Flores

It’s natural that when we see a small, helpless animal, our first instinct is to help it. However, when it comes to wild animals, intervening—despite good intentions—can actually do more harm than good.

The first thing to know is that if you find a baby animal alone, it doesn’t necessarily mean it has been abandoned. In many cases, the mother is nearby and will return shortly. She may even have been scared off by your presence. That’s why the best thing you can do is avoid touching or interfering with the baby, except in specific situations where help may truly be needed.

What should you do?

•Observe from a distance without getting too close.

•Check whether the animal is in immediate

danger (e.g., cars, dogs, cats).

•If it’s a fallen bird chick, try to place it and its

nest back in the tree if possible.

•Monitor from afar for at least one hour to see

if the mother returns.

•Do not take the animal home, feed it, or give

it water.

When should you intervene?

•If the baby is in immediate danger.

•If it shows signs of injury (bleeding, trauma,

electrocution, etc.).

•If one or both parents are found dead nearby.

How to intervene?

Contact the nearest SINAC office or wildlife rescue center to make an official report. For the Central Pacific Conservation Area, you can contact SINAC at 2416 7068. In the areas of Quepos, Jacó, and Herradura, you can reach out to Kids Saving The Rainforest at +506 8826 4625.

Avoid taking wild animals into your home or trying to feed them. This poses a risk both to you and to the animal. Wild animals are not pets and must be cared by trained veterinary professionals who understand their specific needs.

Remember: according to Costa Rica’s Wildlife Conservation Law (Law N.º 7317), only SINAC personnel are authorized to transport wild animals within the country.

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Kids Saving the Rainforest is located in the heart of Manuel Antonio. Our rescue center passionately focuses on the rescue, research, and rehabilitation of iconic species such as sloths, primates, and parrots. kidssavingtherainforest.org