• If it has black toenails. You found it under a tree, on a roof, in a gutter, or in the attic, you have a baby squirrel.
  • Read FAQ: I found a baby squirrel!
• If the hind foot has a thumb in the same location as your thumb and there is no toenail on the thumb, you have an opossum. Because opossums are nomadic the baby can be found anywhere.
  • Read FAQ: I found a baby opossum.
• If the nails are clear to white with no thumb, however the tail is the length of the body excluding head, and you found it in a shallow nest, you have a mouse or rat.
  • Read FAQ: How to contain, prepare, and transport wildlife.
  • Read FAQ: Ways to provide heat for orphan or injured wild animal.
  • Read FAQ: How to locate a wildlife rehabber.

• If you are unsure take a photo and be ready to share with the hotline volunteer or the wildlife rehabilitator.
• Most mammal wildlife rehabilitators specialize; therefore, it is important to know what animal you have before transporting.
• Provide heat as newborn (pink) animals cannot thermoregulate their temperature.
  • Read FAQ: Ways to provide heat for orphan or injured wild animal.
• Contact the wildlife hotline 972-234-9453 or
  • Read FAQ: How to locate a wildlife rehabber.