1. Assess the Situation:
* Safety First: Make sure the area is safe for you and the rabbit. If there are predators or traffic, remove the rabbit to a safer location.
* Observe the Injury: Carefully look for signs of injury. Is it bleeding? Are there broken bones? Can it move?
* Age and Condition: Is the rabbit truly a baby (eyes still closed) or is it an older kit (eyes open)? Is it thin and weak?
2. DO NOT Touch the Baby:
* Scent: Wild animals are incredibly sensitive to scent. Your human smell can confuse the mother and cause her to abandon the nest.
* Stress: Handling a baby rabbit can cause it extreme stress, which can worsen its condition.
3. Observe from a Distance:
* Check the Nest: Look for a nearby nest. If you find one, the mother may be nearby.
* Wait: If you don't see the mother, wait for a short period of time. She may return while you're watching.
4. Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator:
* Call a Local Wildlife Rehabilitator: They are the best resource for caring for injured wild animals. You can find a list of wildlife rehabilitators in your area through the Association of Wildlife Rehabilitators (AWR) website or your local animal control.
* Provide Information: Tell them the location, the rabbit's condition, and your observations.
* Follow Instructions: The rehabilitator will advise you on the best course of action, whether it's leaving the rabbit alone or transporting it to their facility.
5. If the Rabbit is in Immediate Danger:
* Protect it: If the rabbit is in immediate danger (e.g., on the road, being attacked by a predator), carefully move it to a safer location nearby.
* Use a Box: Use a cardboard box or basket lined with soft material. Do not use anything with holes or gaps, and avoid handling it directly.
* Keep Warm: Place a warm compress or a heating pad set on low near the box.
* Contact a Rehabilitator Immediately: While you wait for the rehabilitator, keep the rabbit in a quiet, safe place.
Important Notes:
* Never try to feed or give water to a wild rabbit: This can actually harm them.
* Do not keep a wild rabbit as a pet: Wild animals are not suited to domestication and need specialized care.
Remember: It's important to leave wild animals in their natural habitat whenever possible. By contacting a wildlife rehabilitator, you're ensuring that the injured baby rabbit receives the proper care it needs to have a chance at survival.