What do I do if I find an injured animal?

If wildlife is hurt, you can contact your local wildlife rehabilitation center such as PAWS rehabilitation center (425-412-4040).

What do I do if I find a dead animal?

This depends on where and what species! If you find a large animal dead on a state or federal highway, Washington Department of Transportation can usually deal with it. If it is on public land within Seattle including local roads, Seattle Animal Shelter may be able to remove it. On private land, animals <15lbs can be disposed of in a trash can. For animals larger than this, you can request Seattle Animal Shelter come and dispose it through their form. You can also call the Burke Museum to see if they would like the dead animal. If you handle dead animals, please wear protective gear like gloves especially if you find a dead raccoon, bird, or bat as they are more likely to carry pathogens that could be harmful. 

I got bit by a wild animal, what do I do? 

If this is an emergency of life threatening, contact emergency services (911). Animal mouths are full of bacteria, so it is best to see a doctor to make sure any wound is properly cleaned. For bat bites, it is recommended to get a rabies shot even though rabies is found in <1% of bats in Washington. For more information, please check out King County Department of Public Health's recommendations (206-296-4774). 

Should I feed animals?

While feeding animals often comes from good intentions, it can be very detrimental to an animal's wellbeing and health. This is especially true for larger animals like raccoons and coyotes who, when habituated, can get into conflict with humans and may start nipping or begging to get food rewards from people. Feeding wildlife can also spread harmful pathogens between individuals and populations and can increase the risk of zoonotic disease transmission if feeding occurs near areas where people are frequent. 

What is raccoon roundworm?

Raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) a parasitic worm that raccoons can carry. The eggs of this worm are shed into raccoon feces and can be transferred to people via contaminated water and soil. The eggs are fire and bleach resistant. Although rare, the worm can cause severe effects in humans. See the CDC for more information.

Are rats and mice native to the Greater Seattle Area?

While there are many species of rats and mice that are native to Washington, the ones you are likely concerned about (the ones in your yard/house) are generally 1 of 3 non-native species from Europe and Asia. These are the house mouse (Mus musculus), the Norway or brown rat (Rattus norvegicus), and the roof or black rat (Rattus rattus). 

Are rodents dangerous?

Rodents can be dangerous for your health, especially if they are leaving droppings in areas where you spend time. Rodents can carry a variety of diseases such as Hantavirus, Leptospirosis, and rat-bite fever among others. Always take precautions when dealing with rodents and rodent droppings such as wearing gloves and a mask, and making sure the area has good ventilation.