Wildlife Rescue Numbers in Greater Boston
Urban wildlife in Greater Boston
Greater Boston supports a dense mix of people and wildlife, from raccoons, skunks and coyotes to owls, hawks and songbirds that use parks, backyards and river corridors. As green spaces, rail lines and rooftop areas connect habitats, it is normal to see wild animals moving through neighborhoods at dawn, dusk and overnight.
In spring and early summer, many calls involve young animals that appear abandoned on lawns, sidewalks or under decks. In most cases parents remain nearby and return once the area is quiet. Intervention is recommended only when there are obvious injuries, prolonged immobility or immediate danger from traffic, construction or pets.
Key wildlife rescue numbers for Greater Boston
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 many wildlife emergencies in Greater Boston, including Boston, Cambridge, Somerville and nearby communities, 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 – Weymouth
Non-profit wildlife hospital serving the Greater Boston and South Shore area. Provides medical care and rehabilitation for injured and orphaned wild animals; call ahead before transporting any animal to the facility.
- Wildlife hotline: 781‑682‑4878
- Typical phone hours: 10:00 am–4:00 pm (check current schedule).
- Location: South Weymouth, MA.
Boston Animal Care and Control
Handles city animal control issues and questions about sick, injured or nuisance wildlife within the City of Boston, and can coordinate with state agencies or rescue organizations when needed.
- Phone: 617‑635‑5348
- Best for: wildlife concerns on Boston streets, parks and neighborhoods.
- Service area: City of Boston.
Tufts Wildlife Clinic – North Grafton
University-based wildlife hospital that provides advanced care for many species, including carnivores and large mammals. Always call first; they cannot accept every case and may direct you to another licensed rehabilitator.
- Phone: 508‑839‑7918
- Best for: guidance or referral when local options are limited.
- Location: North Grafton, MA.
Massachusetts Environmental Police
State law enforcement agency that responds to serious public safety concerns involving large wild carnivores, poaching or other wildlife-related law enforcement issues.
- 24‑hour line: 1‑800‑632‑8075
- Use for: bobcats, coyotes, foxes and other carnivores posing an immediate risk to people.
- Service area: statewide.
Other wildlife regions in Massachusetts
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.