MARION – Various animals are regularly hurt by man-made causes, whether it’s hit by cars, rat poisoned, or caught in glue traps. When this happens, there are ways that people can help.

Stephanie Ellis, Executive Director of Wild Care, Inc., visited the Marion Natural History Museum to give a presentation about what to do in these situations. Wild Care takes care of many of wild life species in their organization after they experience traumatic events.

Ellis brought in “Garv” the Eastern Box Turtle as part of her demonstration. Garv was raised as a pet and does not know how to survive our in the woods anymore. Now he is the Wild Care, Inc. mascot and sponsored by a local company for the food and care expenses.

She emphasized that it is important to leave baby animals in their nest as the mom is often nearby and won’t approach till after people leave. Mother rabbits are known to leave their young for the entire day, and come back in the evening to nurse them when it is safe. Ellis also brought in a baby field mouse and the equipment she uses to keep him fed.

The Marion Natural History Museum wishes thanked Ellis for “the terrific program” and the Marion Cultural Council for their help in paying for the costs of the program.

If you find an injured animal or an “abandoned” baby rabbit or mouse nest, you can contact Ellis at sellis@wildcarecpecod.org and she will advise you as to next steps.