A Neighborly Guide to Helping Injured Wildlife in Sequim

Living in Sequim, WA, we're blessed with an incredible tapestry of wildlife. From the resident deer gently grazing at sunrise, to the vibrant calls of songbirds and the occasional glimpse of a coyote, our connection to the natural world is one of Sequim’s greatest treasures. But what should you do if you come across an injured wild animal? Knowing how to respond not only benefits local wildlife, but helps us maintain the gentle balance of life that makes Sequim so special. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do if you find an injured wild animal in our area.

Recognizing an Injured Wild Animal

It’s crucial to distinguish between an animal that truly needs help and one simply resting or exhibiting normal behaviors. Here in Sequim, fawns are sometimes left alone for hours, as their mothers forage nearby. Similarly, fledgling birds often spend time on the ground while learning to fly. These behaviors are normal and not necessarily signs of distress.

• Common signs of injury: visible wounds or bleeding, unnatural limping, inability to stand or fly, unresponsiveness to nearby presence, or being in an unusual location (such as a bird inside your garage).
• Non-injured wildlife: If the animal is alert, responsive, and mobile, it usually doesn't need intervention.

Assessing the Situation: Safety First

Before moving closer to the animal, prioritize your own safety. Wild animals, including those in distress, can react unpredictably. Large mammals such as deer or raccoons may defend themselves, and birds of prey possess sharp beaks and talons. Additionally, certain animals could carry diseases transmittable to humans or pets.

• Keep pets and children away from the injured animal.
• Observe from a distance using binoculars if possible.
• Do not attempt to handle large animals or potentially dangerous species such as eagles or coyotes.

Who to Call in Sequim, WA

Washington state has regulations regarding the handling of wildlife. It’s both illegal and unsafe for untrained individuals to rehabilitate most wild animals. Instead, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.

In the Sequim and greater Clallam County area, your best steps are:

• Call the North Olympic Wildlife Rescue at (360) 681-2283.
• Reach out to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife regional office.
• For marine animals like seals or sea birds, contact the Port Angeles Marine Life Center or the NOAA Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline at (866) 767-6114.

Provide a clear description of the animal, its condition, and your location.

What You Can Do While Waiting

If advised by a rehabilitator, you may be asked to contain the animal until help arrives. Here are general guidelines:

• Prepare a safe container: Use a cardboard box lined with a towel. Punch small air holes before placing the animal inside.
• Gently cover the animal with a towel to reduce stress and keep it warm.
• Minimize contact: Do not attempt to feed, give water, or handle the animal more than necessary.
• Keep the environment quiet: Loud noises and too much movement increase stress, which can be fatal for injured wildlife.

Special Considerations for Local Species

Sequim's landscape brings unique challenges and opportunities for wildlife encounters. Here’s how to handle common local cases:

• Fawns: If you find a fawn alone but uninjured, leave it be. If it appears injured, call a rehabilitator.
• Songbirds: If they’re feathered but grounded, monitor from afar unless there’s obvious injury.



• Marine mammals: Never touch or approach; these animals are federally protected. Report to authorities.
• Birds of prey: Do not handle. Even small hawks or owls can cause injuries.

What NOT to Do

Helping doesn’t always mean intervening. Here are things to avoid:

• Don’t keep wild animals as pets. It’s illegal and almost always leads to suffering for the animal.
• Don’t feed or give water. Most injuries require specialized care; improper feeding can harm.
• Don’t attempt to treat injuries yourself. Home remedies or well-meaning first aid can do more harm than good.
• Don’t transport animals long distances. Local rehabilitators are best equipped to handle the species native to our region.

Preventing Wildlife Injuries in Sequim

While some accidents are unavoidable, we can help reduce harm to our local wildlife:

• Drive carefully at dawn and dusk, especially on rural roads frequented by deer.
• Keep cats indoors and minimize use of rodenticides, which have impacts up the food chain.
• Secure garbage and pet food to prevent attracting wildlife into dangerous situations.
• Look before mowing, and check for nesting birds or baby rabbits in tall grass.

Enjoying Wildlife Responsibly

In Sequim, a respect for nature is part of our lifestyle. Observing wild animals from a distance, keeping pets leashed while on trails, and understanding that not all orphaned animals need rescue allows us all, human and animal alike, to coexist in harmony.

If you ever find yourself in doubt, err on the side of calling a professional before intervening. Your actions could be the difference between life and death for a wild animal, and by responding thoughtfully, you’re helping keep Sequim wild, beautiful, and thriving.