What is the best way to handle a newborn wild animal?

The best way to handle a newborn wild animal is to wear gloves and minimize handling to reduce stress and contamination risk. Newborn wild animals are particularly vulnerable and can easily become stressed by human interaction. Wearing gloves helps prevent the transfer of human scent and potential contaminants, which can be detrimental to the animal's health. Additionally, limited handling is crucial, as excessive interaction can lead to a reliance on humans that may hinder their natural instincts and ability to survive if they are eventually released back into the wild.

Minimizing handling also recognizes the importance of a quiet and safe environment for the animal during its critical early development. It is essential to allow them to remain as undisturbed as possible, ensuring that their natural behaviors are not disrupted. This approach promotes lower stress levels, allowing the animal to acclimate better, whether it is being rehabilitated for eventual release or cared for until it can be transferred to a more suitable environment.