Small mammal
White-footed mouse; Deer mouse; House mouse; Norway rat; Eastern chipmunk; Meadow vole; shrews, moles, and more
About
There are many species of small mammal living in Massachusetts, but some of the better known animals are chipmunks, mice, rats, moles, voles, and shrews.
Chipmunks, mice, rats and voles are members of the rodent family. They give birth to multiple litters throughout the season. The babies of these species tend to look very similar to one another and often need the help of a licensed rehabilitator to help properly ID the baby.
Shrews and moles are insectivores that spend much of their time underground. Shrews have small eyes and ears, while moles have tiny eyes covered by fur and lack external ear structures. Generally, we do not see orphan shrews or moles in rehabilitation since they are born and raised underground.
Found a small mammal?
Mice, rats, and voles can often be successfully reunited with their mothers, even if a nest has been damaged or moved. It is important to keep the babies warm using a supplemental heat source.
Chipmunks, shrews, and moles are species that give birth in underground tunnels. A baby found above ground needs help and can not be reunited.
It is important to first identify the species that you are dealing with by contacting a licensed rehabilitator as soon as possible with a photo to assist in the ID.
Do any of the following apply?
the baby has an obvious injury
the baby is dehydrated and/or very thin
the baby has been in the mouth of a dog or cat (even if it does not appear to be injured)
flies are swarming around the baby and/or it is covered in fly eggs, which look like tiny grains of white rice. Flystrike is most often seen around the face and under the tail.
the baby is cold, wet, and/or lethargic
the mother is confirmed dead
attempts have been made to reunite the baby with the mother and it has been more than 24-48 hours
If you answered YES to any of these prompts, call a licensed rehabilitator for advice.
If the answer to all prompts is NO, attempts should be made to reunite the baby with its mother. If you're not sure, call a rehabber.
Chipmunks, mice, rats, voles, shrews, and moles are not considered rabies vector species, but should still be handled carefully with gloves or a blanket.
