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November 13, 2009

Wildlife Behavior: Tips from a Pro

The Humane Society of the United States

Jacquelyn Johnston is one of three ambulance drivers for the SPCA Wildlife Care Center in Broward County, now part of The Humane Society of the United States. She once carried an injured Great White Heron for three miles through snake- and alligator-infested territory. She swaddled the bird in a towel and held its beak and feet to keep it calm through the long hike.

Here, Johnston shares a few basic rules she's learned about working with wildlife.

 

Teenagers make bad decisions

This applies no matter what the species. They get stuck in fences going places where they shouldn't be going.

Hell hath no fury like a mother

If an animal is being persistent, she might be protecting her young.

Animals don’t know you're here to help them

They're more scared of you than you are of them, so try not to corner them.

Animal are individuals

Every animal is different. Never let your guard down, even if you think you know the species.”