When should I call a wildlife rescue number in Massachusetts?

Call a wildlife rescue number in Massachusetts if an animal is visibly injured, bleeding, trapped, unable to move normally, or behaving abnormally near people, homes, roads or public areas.

What information should I have ready before calling a wildlife hotline?

Have your exact location, a short description of the animal, visible injuries, how long you have observed the situation, and whether the animal is near a road, building or people. Observe from a distance and keep children and pets away.

Can I move or transport injured wildlife myself?

Do not handle or transport wild animals unless a licensed rehabilitator or wildlife professional gives you specific instructions. Many species can bite, scratch or carry diseases, and improper handling may worsen injuries.

Are wildlife rescue services free?

Most wildlife rehabilitators in Massachusetts are privately funded or volunteer-based. Many do not charge for emergency advice, but may accept or suggest donations to support their work.

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Emergency wildlife help · Martha’s Vineyard

Wildlife Rescue Numbers on Martha’s Vineyard

If you have found an injured or orphaned wild animal on Martha’s Vineyard – in Vineyard Haven, Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, West Tisbury, Chilmark or Aquinnah – use the numbers below to reach trained wildlife professionals. Call first, keep your distance and follow the instructions you receive.

Statewide hotlines

Regional rescue contacts

What to do before calling

Safety for people & animals

Wildlife on Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard is an island of beaches, dunes, salt marshes, coastal shrublands, ponds and mixed woodlands. These habitats support shorebirds, seabirds, ospreys, herons, songbirds, bats, foxes, skunks, raccoons, turtles and offshore marine mammals such as seals and dolphins that occasionally rest or strand on local beaches.

In spring and early summer many calls involve young birds or mammals visible in yards, fields or dunes while adults forage nearby. Most apparently “alone” juveniles are not abandoned and should not be handled. Intervention is recommended only when there are clear signs of injury, prolonged immobility, or immediate danger from traffic, pets, or heavy human activity on the shoreline.

Martha’s Vineyard blends beaches, dunes, marshes, ponds and woodlands into island habitat used year-round by coastal and migratory wildlife.

Key wildlife rescue numbers for Martha’s Vineyard

Tap a number to call. Start with the Martha’s Vineyard and marine mammal contacts below; if they are unavailable, use the statewide MassWildlife and emergency numbers.

Statewide hotline

MassWildlife – Wildlife assistance

Statewide line for guidance on injured or sick wildlife and conflicts with wildlife anywhere in Massachusetts, including Martha’s Vineyard.

Phone: 508-389-6300

District office – Southeast

MassWildlife Southeast District – Buzzards Bay

Regional MassWildlife office serving southeastern Massachusetts and nearby coastal communities. Provides information on wildlife issues and referrals to licensed rehabilitators.

Phone: 508-759-3406
Address: 195 Bournedale Road, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532.

Marine mammals & sea turtles

NOAA Marine Mammal & Sea Turtle Hotline – Martha’s Vineyard

For seals, dolphins, whales or sea turtles on or near Martha’s Vineyard beaches. Do not approach or push animals back into the water; trained responders will be dispatched.

Hotline: 866-755-6622

Marine mammals – Cape & SE MA

IFAW Marine Mammal Rescue – Cape Cod & SE Massachusetts

Responds to stranded seals, dolphins and whales on Cape Cod and parts of southeastern Massachusetts, and may coordinate on regional stranding events affecting the islands.

Stranding hotline: 508-743-9548

Island animal shelter

Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard – Edgartown

Island animal shelter that can advise on domestic animal concerns and may direct callers to appropriate contacts when wildlife is involved.

Phone: 508-627-8662
Address: 1 Pennywise Path, Edgartown, MA 02539.

Information line

MSPCA Wildlife Information Line

Helps you decide whether an animal on Martha’s Vineyard needs intervention or is behaving normally for its species and age, and provides behavioral guidance.

Phone: 617-383-1210

Statewide emergency

Massachusetts Environmental Police

State law enforcement agency responding to serious public safety issues involving large wild animals, marine mammals near busy harbors, or other wildlife emergencies anywhere in Massachusetts.

24-hour line: 1-800-632-8075

MassWildlife: 508-389-6300

NOAA Martha’s Vineyard: 866-755-6622

Animal Shelter of MV: 508-627-8662

Other wildlife regions in Massachusetts

Need help outside Martha’s Vineyard? Choose another Massachusetts region to find local wildlife rehabilitators and contacts.

Greater Boston North Shore South Shore Central MA Western MA Cape Cod Martha’s Vineyard Nantucket

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

A short checklist to protect both people and wildlife in Massachusetts.

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

Short answers to common questions from residents and visitors.

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.