Have Wildlife Questions? PAWS Has Answers!
By Kevin Mack, PAWS Naturalist
Over the past few weeks you have likely noticed a change in the behavior of the wild animals on your property. Birds are singing and gathering nesting materials. Squirrels are chasing each other and peeling thin strips of bark off of trees. You may have been woken up in the night by snarling raccoons or the pitter-patter of little feet in your attic. The spring breeding season has arrived, and many species of wildlife are making the necessary preparations to bring the next generation into the world.
In the coming days, weeks and months, you may have a direct interaction with breeding wildlife. If there is access available, it’s possible that an animal will take up residence in your attic or crawlspace. A bird may decide to build its nest near, on or in your house. You may come across a young animal and wonder if it is in need of help. The breeding season can be a trying time for both wildlife and their human neighbors alike, but whenever an issue arises help is only a phone call or a mouse click away.
PAWS offers a variety of resources online at www.paws.org. Are you having a conflict with Raccoons? Some other species? Click on the wildlife tab and check out the “Resources and Fact Sheets� section. It contains detailed information on a variety of common species that people encounter. Have you found an injured or orphaned wild animal? Click on the “Injured/Orphaned Wildlife� tab to determine how to proceed.
If you don’t find what you are looking for on the website, don’t hesitate to call the PAWS Wildlife Rehabilitation Center directly at 425-787-2500 ext. 817. Our experienced staff members can offer valuable advice on just about any wildlife issue that may arise. They will be happy to help you find the most effective and humane solution for your particular situation.
Summer hours for the PAWS Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, beginning in April, are from 8 am to 8 pm, seven days a week. If you have a wildlife related issue or question, we would love to help in any way that we are able. Stop by the website or give us a call!
