Frequently Asked Questions
I have a wild animal on my property that I need relocated. Can you help?​
Relocation of wildlife in the state of Massachusetts is not possible. Not only is it illegal, it can also be harmful and is usually ineffective. If you are having a problem with wildlife on your property, try to determine what is attracting the animal(s). Eliminate easily accessible food sources, such as garbage and bird feeders, and check for areas that could be sealed off to prevent animals from entering into human-made structures. Refrain from using baits and poisons.For more information, please read Mass Fish and Wildlife's statement on wildlife relocation.
I found a nest of baby rabbits in my yard. What should I do?
Eastern cottontail rabbit mothers create nests in shallow depressions in the ground. She lines the nest with grasses and fur she pulls from her chest. Assuming that you have found a nest that resembles this description, there is often nothing to be concerned about. A mother rabbit only visits the nest twice a day to briefly feed and clean her babies. It is completely normal to see nested babies without the mother nearby. If you are concerned about babies or the nest, visit our 'I found a rabbit' page for more information on assessing the well-being of the nest and kits.
There is a fox/coyote with mange in my neighborhood. Can you help?
Mange is a contagious skin disease caused by a mite parasite. It causes itching, hairloss, and scabs/lesions. It is frequently observed in wild foxes and coyotes and can (but not always!) indicate a compromised immune system from other causes, such as rodenticide poisoning. In cases where the immune system is not compromised, it is possible that a fox or coyote will be able to recover without intervention. However, mange can be deadly if it leads to secondary infections and hypothermia. In the state of Massachusetts, it is iIlegal to place medicated bait out for infected animals. The proper dosing for a fox or coyote could kill a smaller animal if it were accidentally consumed by an unintended animal. Additionally, if the fox or coyote is suffering from another issue, like rodenticide poisoning, a medication could cause further harm.
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Foxes are able to be rehabilitated by experienced licensed rehabbers, but coyotes require special permission from Mass Wildlife in order to be rehabilitated by specific centers or rehabbers. In both instances, the fox or coyote needs to be sick or debilitated enough that it can be captured. Law prohibits trapping of wildlife for the purpose of rehabilitation and any animal that is to receive treatment from a licensed rehabber must be caught by hand, net, or catch-pole. Newhouse Wildlife Rescue has a greatly informative video on dealing with mangey foxes.