Wildlife Rescue Numbers in Western Massachusetts
Wildlife in Western Massachusetts
Western Massachusetts includes the Berkshire Mountains, broad river valleys, extensive forests, wetlands, fields and small towns. These habitats support white-tailed deer, black bears, moose, bobcats, coyotes, foxes, beavers, otters, hawks, owls and many songbirds and small mammals. Wildlife frequently travels along ridgelines, stream corridors and forest edges, especially at dawn and dusk.
In late spring and early summer, many calls involve young animals resting quietly 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 trauma, prolonged immobility or immediate danger from traffic, construction or domestic pets.
Key wildlife rescue numbers for Western Massachusetts
MassWildlife – Wildlife assistance
Statewide line for guidance on injured or sick wildlife and conflicts with wildlife anywhere in Massachusetts, including Western Massachusetts.
- Phone: 508-389-6300
MassWildlife Western District – Dalton
Regional MassWildlife office serving Western Massachusetts. Provides local information on wildlife issues and can direct you to nearby licensed wildlife rehabilitators.
- Phone: 413-684-1646
- Address: 88 Old Windsor Road, Dalton, MA 01226.
Tufts Wildlife Clinic – North Grafton
University-based wildlife hospital treating many species of wild birds, small mammals, reptiles and amphibians from across Massachusetts. Call before transporting any animal.
- Phone: 508-839-7918
- Location: 50 Willard Street, North Grafton, MA 01536.
MSPCA Wildlife Information Line
Helps you decide whether an animal needs intervention or is behaving normally for its species and age, and can refer you to wildlife rehabilitators in Western Massachusetts.
- Phone: 617-383-1210
Massachusetts Environmental Police
State law enforcement agency responding to serious public safety concerns involving large wild animals, road hazards and other wildlife-related emergencies.
- 24-hour line: 1-800-632-8075
Cummington Wildlife – Cummington
Licensed wildlife rehabilitator in Western Massachusetts focusing on injured and orphaned native wildlife. Capacity and species accepted may vary by season.
- Phone: 413-695-6854
Dawndale Farm Wildlife – Bernardston
Licensed wildlife rehabilitator in Bernardston, serving parts of Western Massachusetts. Call ahead to confirm species and availability.
- Phone: 413-768-9145
Urban Wildlife Rehabilitation, Inc. – Springfield area
Non-profit, volunteer-run rehabilitator focusing on small mammals in Western Massachusetts, including Springfield, Chicopee and Westfield.
- Phone: 413-781-6746
Spruce Hill Veterinary Clinic – Springfield
Veterinary clinic that can advise on injured wildlife and may provide initial triage or referral to licensed rehabilitators in Western Massachusetts.
- Phone: 413-782-3183
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.