06/11/2026
Part of living here in the UP means dealing with injured or orphaned wildlife. We are fortunate to have the amazing wildlife rehabbers that we do who provide a vital role in providing these critters with their best chance at returning to the wild.
North Heart Vet - Gwinn Sawyer is proud to work with these hard working groups that give up their time, finances and energy to take care of furred and feathered friends that need help.
Important reminders when coming across a critter that may be in need:
North Heart Vet supports the humane treatment of Michigan wildlife while complying with all applicable state and federal wildlife regulations. Wildlife rehabilitation is a specialized field regulated by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
To ensure wildlife receives appropriate care and remains legally protected, orphaned, injured, or displaced wildlife must first be evaluated by a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
> Before You Rescue Wildlife...
Many wild animals that appear abandoned are actually healthy and being cared for by their parents.
Common examples include:
Fawns
* Mother deer commonly leave fawns alone for several hours.
* A fawn lying quietly by itself is usually normal.
* Do not remove a fawn unless it is clearly injured, covered with flies, crying continuously for many hours, or the mother is confirmed deceased.
Baby Rabbits
* Mother rabbits visit the nest only a few times each day.
* Healthy baby rabbits found in a nest should generally be left alone.
Young Birds
* Fledglings often spend several days on the ground while learning to fly.
* Parents are usually nearby and continue feeding them.
* Unless injured, these birds should usually remain where found.
Other Wildlife
When in doubt, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator before attempting rescue.
> If You Find Injured or Orphaned Wildlife ....
1. Keep children and pets away.
2. Place the animal in a quiet, dark, ventilated container if containment is necessary.
3. Do not feed or give water unless instructed by a licensed rehabilitator.
4. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately.
5. Follow the rehabilitator's instructions regarding transport and care.
> Important Notice!!!
North Heart Vet is a companion animal veterinary hospital.
We are not currently licensed as a wildlife rehabilitation facility and cannot provide:
* Long-term wildlife housing
* Rehabilitation services
* Wildlife placement
* Wildlife transport
* Wildlife release services
Wildlife must be managed through a licensed rehabilitator as required by Michigan law.
> Transport Responsibility ...
The finder is responsible for transporting wildlife to the appropriate rehabilitation facility.
North Heart Vet staff are generally unable to transport wildlife.
> Wildlife Arriving at the Clinic ...
Please contact us before bringing wildlife to the hospital.
Wildlife presented without prior coordination may be redirected to a licensed rehabilitator if appropriate.
Because wildlife patients require specialized handling and biosecurity measures, acceptance cannot be guaranteed.
> Wildlife Medical Fees ...
Medical evaluation and treatment of wildlife is provided at no cost at NHV-Gwinn Sawyer, but that does not mean it does not cost US anything. Any donation, no matter how small, helps offset the cost of care. DO NOT FORGET our licensed wildlife rehabbers who rely on donations and fund raising to stay open and provide this valuable care.
> Humane Euthanasia
Some wildlife injuries are too severe to allow successful recovery or release. When suffering cannot be reasonably alleviated, humane euthanasia may be recommended in accordance with veterinary standards and applicable wildlife regulations.
> Wildlife Rehabilitator Contacts ...
Mammals & Fawns
Kyann Clarke
Superior Wildlife Rehab & Education Center
Marquette County, MI
Species: Mammals and fawns
Phone: 406-552-5680
Migratory Birds (Non-Raptors)
Michelle Anderson
Keweenaw Wild Bird R.E.C.
Hancock, MI
Phone: 906-299-2149
Raptors & Non-Migratory Birds
Beth Matta
U.P. Wildlife Rehabilitation
Phone: 906-370-3825
Michigan DNR RAP Hotline (24 Hours)
800-292-7800
> SPECIAL SPECIES CONSIDERATIONS
Bats
- Never handle bats with bare hands.
- Any bat found:
* In a room with a sleeping person
* With an unattended child
* With a cognitively impaired individual
* With a pet
- May require rabies exposure evaluation.
- Contact the local health department and DNR for guidance.
Skunks
- Skunks are considered rabies-vector species.
- Do not transport or house skunks without specific guidance from DNR authorities.
Raptors
- Eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls can inflict serious injuries with talons and beaks.
- Use caution and contact a licensed bird rehabilitator immediately.
Waterfowl and Loons
- Loons, swans, geese, ducks, and other aquatic birds require specialized care and transportation.
- Contact a licensed rehabilitator for guidance before transport.
Wildlife should generally be managed through licensed rehabilitators. Wild animals have the best chance of returning to the wild when they are evaluated by licensed wildlife rehabilitators and treated only when medically necessary. By following the rehabilitation process, we can help ensure the best possible outcome for both wildlife and the public.
