Wildlife Rescue Phone Numbers in Massachusetts
Massachusetts Wildlife Patterns
Massachusetts is home to a wide variety of native wildlife that often becomes more visible as seasons change. Many animals follow predictable patterns tied to feeding, breeding and movement, which explains unusual sightings near homes or along roads. In early summer, young birds and mammals move more as they learn basic survival behaviors, and it is common to see them in open areas without an adult in sight.
Most of these juveniles are healthy and do not require help, even if they appear alone. Parents typically stay close while gathering food and will return once the area is calm. People should intervene only when there are clear signs of injury, extreme weakness or immediate danger from pets or traffic. In all other cases, leaving the animal undisturbed offers the highest chance of survival.
Key wildlife rescue numbers in Massachusetts
MassWildlife – Wildlife assistance
General advice on injured or sick wildlife, possible rabies risks, and conflicts with wild animals anywhere in Massachusetts.
- Phone: 508‑389‑6300
- Best for: statewide questions and referrals.
- Service area: all of Massachusetts.
Animal Rescue League of Boston – Field Services
Responds to wildlife emergencies in Greater Boston, often in coordination with local authorities and animal control.
- Phone: 617‑426‑9170
- Typical hours: daytime and early evening (varies).
- Focus: injured, trapped or distressed wildlife.
MSPCA – Wildlife information
Helps you decide whether an animal needs intervention or is behaving normally for its species and age.
- Phone: 617‑383‑1210
- Best for: “Is this normal?” questions.
- Can direct you to local rehabilitators.
New England Wildlife Center
Non-profit wildlife hospital in South Weymouth providing medical care and rehabilitation for injured and orphaned wild animals.
- Phone: 781‑682‑4878
- Best for: injured or sick wildlife that can be transported safely.
- Service area: eastern Massachusetts.
Cape Wildlife Center
Full-service wildlife hospital on Cape Cod dedicated to treating and rehabilitating sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife.
- Wildlife hotline: 508‑362‑0111
- After-hours emergencies: 617‑835‑6845
- Service area: Cape Cod and nearby coastal communities.
Tufts Wildlife Clinic
Academic wildlife clinic at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in North Grafton, treating a wide range of wild birds, mammals and reptiles.
- Phone: 508‑839‑7918
- Best for: transportable injured or sick wildlife (call first for instructions).
- Service area: statewide referrals, especially central Massachusetts.
Wild Care Cape Cod
Wildlife rehabilitation center in Eastham helping sick, injured and orphaned wild animals from Cape Cod communities.
- Animal help line: 508‑240‑2255
- Best for: small mammals, songbirds and local coastal wildlife.
- Service area: outer and mid-Cape towns.
Cummington Wildlife
Licensed wildlife rehabilitator in the hilltowns of western Massachusetts, focusing on small mammals and birds.
- Phone: 413‑695‑6854
- Service area: Cummington and surrounding western MA towns.
Dawndale Farm Wildlife
Wildlife rehabilitation facility in Bernardston caring for orphaned and injured wildlife from northern and western Massachusetts.
- Phone: 413‑768‑9145
- Service area: Franklin County and nearby areas.
Urban Wildlife Rehabilitation, Inc.
Rehabilitator specializing in common urban species found in and around Springfield, Chicopee and Westfield.
- Phone: 413‑781‑6746
- Service area: greater Springfield area and nearby cities.
Find wildlife contacts by region
If you are close to a regional boundary, check two nearby regions. Some rehabilitators cover more than one area.
When to call – and what to do before you dial
- Check your safety first. Do not approach wild animals closely. Keep children and pets away, and avoid handling the animal.
- Observe quietly from a distance. Note the animal’s size, species (if you can), visible injuries and how long you have seen the situation.
- Record the exact location. Street address, nearby building, landmark or GPS pin will help responders find the animal faster.
- Call a wildlife number. Use the statewide numbers above or your regional contacts. Describe what you see and follow the instructions you receive.
- Do not feed or give water. Well–meant food or water can harm some species or make capture more difficult.
- For immediate danger to people or traffic, contact local emergency services as well as wildlife contacts.
Many young animals in spring and early summer are not truly orphaned. Parents may be away for long periods. When in doubt, call a wildlife information line before picking up or moving the animal.
FAQ: Wildlife rescue in Massachusetts
What if I find a baby bird or small mammal alone?
Many fledgling birds and young mammals spend time on the ground while parents watch from nearby. Unless there is an obvious injury or danger (road, pets, people), observation is often best. If you are unsure, call a wildlife information line and describe the situation.
Who handles rabies concerns in Massachusetts?
If you suspect rabies exposure (bite, saliva contact with a wound or mucous membrane), contact your local health department and MassWildlife immediately. They will advise on testing, quarantine and human medical follow‑up.
Can I bring an injured wild animal to a vet?
Some veterinary clinics work with licensed wildlife rehabilitators, others do not accept wildlife. Always call first. A wildlife hotline can suggest which facility, if any, can receive the animal.
Are there wildlife rehabilitators in every part of Massachusetts?
Availability varies by region and species. In some areas, rehabilitators may be at capacity or limited to specific types of animals. Regional pages on this site are designed to point you toward the most relevant contacts first.