Is it really an orphan? In the spring and early summer, you may have the good fortune to observe a nest of baby birds or a young mammal with no adult in sight. Enjoy the scene, but unless there appears to be something dreadfully amiss (a nest out of the tree, broken legs or wings, or wounds and bleeding) - LEAVE IT ALONE! Northwest Trek suggests that you not approach, touch or attempt to take possession of any native wildlife for any reason.

Many species of animals are raised by only one parent that may temporarily leave its offspring in search of the next meal. Wildlife parents are devoted to the care of their young and rarely abandon them. Since a wildlife parent cannot be in two places at once, it may leave its young alone for quite long periods several times a day while it searches for food.

If you think that an animal may be truly an orphan or injured, contact the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, trained to handle cases of orphaned or injured wild animals. Please do not try to collect the animal and bring it to Northwest Trek. Trek is not a licensed rehabilitator and has no means to care for orphans or injured wildlife.