Wayward Wild Ones

08/30/2026

08/30/2026

Tiny turtle hatchlings are beginning to emerge from their nests across Massachusetts. You come across one on a trail, in your yard, or crossing a road, and the best thing you can do is let it continue on its way.

One thing that surprises many people is that baby turtles are never raised by their mothers. Once she lays her eggs, a mother turtle's job is done. Hatchlings are completely independent from the moment they emerge from their nest. If you see a little turtle traveling on its own, that's exactly what it's supposed to be doing!

Although it's tempting to carry a hatchling to the nearest pond or stream, healthy baby turtles know where they're going. If the turtle is alert, active, and walking with purpose, the best thing you can do is let it continue its journey. If it's crossing a road, you can carefully move it in the direction it was already traveling.

Never relocate it to a pond, stream, or different wetland, even if it looks like a better home. And while they're undeniably adorable, wild baby turtles belong in the wild. Please don't take hatchlings home as pets or souvenirs. The greatest gift you can give them is the chance to live the life nature intended.

If the turtle appears injured or sick, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.

Wildlife rehabilitation is powered by people. Sometimes the best way to help wildlife is by simply letting it be wild.

08/27/2026

It's been a bit BUT theeeeeyyyyy're
back!
Second wave of squirrels to round off baby season. Just took 3 baby girls in.

08/22/2026

The best!! Call of the Wild Animal Control

08/19/2026

Another release video from last week. 4 more babies out in the wild!

08/19/2026

Haha. Yup. This. All the time!

Close to Nature Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

We understand that individuals want to help but please understand that there is a right & wrong way to help injured & orphaned wildlife.

If you were rushed into the ER for an emergency or found in the middle of the woods dehydrated & starving, the nurses & Dr's aren't going to force feed you McDonald's immediately & a soda. They are going examine your injuries, get you warm, properly hydrate you, & then slowly start feeding you an appropriate diet for your condition. The same applies to domestic pets when brought in & wildlife.

So what we are asking you, isn't crazy, but the norm in life saving situations for humans & animals. PLEASE, do not attempt too feed or give water. Keep the animal warm, secure, & in a dark & quiet area away from pets & children until you find a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or facility.

Feeding improperly or providing the wrong type of diet, especially for young wildlife can cause aspiration pneumonia, development issues, & even death.

If you truly care about the animal's well being, please contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or become a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. The majority of states require individuals to have training & a license to rehab wildlife. State licenses are needed for mammals & reptiles. A federal license is needed for the majority of birds.

Would you know what to do if the wildlife in your care had parasites, had diarrhea, had a zoonotic diseases, aspiration pneumonia, or MBD? Do you know how often certain animals need to be fed & the proper amounts? Do you know their specific dietary needs? Do you know what medications can be given & the dosages? Which medications can be given to different species?

Unfortunately, Google doesn't have all of these answers & sometimes it has very incorrect information. Please do the right thing for injured and orphaned wildlife.

Use your state's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or AnimalHelpNow.org to locate licensed wildlife rehabilitators or facilities near you.

08/09/2026

The younger crew enjoying breakfast and a newly cleaned pool. They have about 6 weeks to go still.

08/09/2026

Raccoons are more than just curious scavengers. They possess remarkable long-term memory. Studies show they can remember human faces and safe places for over three years. If treated kindly, a raccoon may return not just for food but because it recalls feeling secure and welcome.

Kathy Elliott