A Helping Hand
How to help wildlife in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl
Let the experts provide care.
The effects of Hurricane Beryl are still being felt in Houston, and not just by humans. Houston SPCA’s Wildlife Center has already taken in more than 1,600 orphaned or injured wild animals, including approximately 350 egrets who were rescued after they were blown out of their nests in a northwest neighborhood. Staff and volunteers are working tirelessly to provide care.
Summer is baby season for egrets, and it is common to find many nesting areas in and around Houston.
Among the wildlife impacted were Mississippi kites, mourning doves, white-winged doves, opossums, and squirrels. An emaciated bald eagle even arrived at the campus on Wednesday.
If you find any injured or orphaned wild animals, bring them to the Houston SPCA’s Wildlife Center as soon as possible.
Here is how to help orphaned or injured wildlife:
- Carefully place the animal in a box with soft rags and a warm — not hot — water bottle, a rice sock, or a heating pad set on low until it is safe to get them to the Houston SPCA’s Wildlife Center.
- Never attempt to feed or give water to any distressed wildlife, as they may have water in their lungs or other serious injuries.
- Place them in a warm and quiet environment, away from regular household noise and pets until you can get them to the Houston SPCA’s Wildlife Center.
Other ways to help right now include:
- Remove dirt and debris from birdbaths and fill with clean water.
- Put out extra birdseed or suet in your yard.
- Check under trees in your neighborhood for injured or orphaned wildlife hidden under fallen branches, and get them to the Houston SPCA campus as soon as possible.
For complete guidelines on helping distressed wild animals, visit here. If you are able, please consider supporting Houston SPCA here.
