When to Report Sick or Dead Wildlife

What do I do if I see a sick or dead animal?

Monitoring possible disease outbreaks is critical to protecting the health of wildlife in Missouri. Please report observations of the following:

  • Single deer that appear sick, especially deer that are skinny and acting oddly
  • Three or more sick or dead mammals
  • Five or more sick or dead birds
  • Groups of sick and dead amphibians or reptiles

Report any observations of sick or dead wildlife that meet these criteria to WildlifeHealth@mdc.mo.gov

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For your safety
  • Avoid handling sick or dead wildlife.
  • If you must handle a dead animal, always wear gloves and wash your hands after.

Any mammal can carry rabies — be cautious of any mammal that is acting strangely.

Additional Resources
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Rabies Testing for Humans and Domestic Animals
DHSS – Rabies Testing