As spring transitions to summer each year, the Greenburgh Nature Center receives many questions from concerned Westchester residents regarding what to do when a baby or injured animal is found. Although we are happy to provide information on this issue, the Greenburgh Nature Center itself is not a rehabilitation center and the only people legally allowed to treat and release wild animals are wildlife rehabilitators licensed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Please refrain from bringing any animals to the Nature Center and instead visit the DEC’s website for a list of licensed rehabilitators in your area.
The Nature Center will not accept wild animals or exotic pets. All of our animals on display are rehabilitated and unable to live in the wild.
Nature is the healthiest when left alone!
During the spring months animal sighting and encounters are ever more common. If you see an animal refer to this check list for proper action.
- Just because you see a baby animal by itself doesn’t mean the mother has abandoned it. Instead, it’s likely the mother is somewhere close.
- If you see an animal that appears to be hurt do not try and pick it up yourself. Instead, go to the Department of Environmental Conservation’s website to find a wildlife rehabilitator near you.
- If you can’t find a local rehabilitator then give us a call us at (914) 723-3470 and we will find the best solution possible.