Transporting an injured wild animal

If you have decided to capture a small, injured bird or mammal, and take it to a wildlife rehabilitator, please be sure to first read the sections about safely handling an injured wild animal, and about the impact of stress and shock to an injured animal, and about setting up temporary housing. Then follow these steps to make the injured animal as comfortable as possible during its transport:

Place the animal's covered box securely on the seat or floor of your car.
Keep the car warm and quiet (no radio, minimal talking) while you travel.
Do not let anyone, especially not a child, hold the animal on his or her lap during the trip. It is very important to think first about what the injured animal needs and the fact that contact with people is stressful for the animal. Once the animal arrives at a rehabilitation center, it will be treated by experienced volunteers who will ensure that it receives the best care possible.