Escaping Traps
Sometimes, a wild animal’s biggest danger isn’t a predator—it’s a man-made trap. Pools, storm drains, dumpsters, window wells, and similar spaces can unintentionally become death traps for wildlife who fall in and can’t climb or fly out. Luckily, with a little know-how, you can make a big difference.
This guide will help you respond safely and effectively when you find an animal stuck in one of these places and how to prevent it from happening in the first place.
First: Assess the Situation
Before acting, take a moment to observe:
What species is it? Identify the animal if you can. Birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians require different handling approaches. Never approach venomous or aggressive animals—call a professional instead.
Is the animal injured? If it’s bleeding, limping, or unresponsive, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or your local animal control.
Is it safe for you to help? If you're unsure, prioritize your safety and reach out to professionals. Do not attempt to handle bats, foxes, coyotes, raccoons, or any animal that could carry rabies.
Common Traps and How to Help
Swimming Pools: Wildlife, especially frogs, snakes, birds, and small mammals, can fall into pools and drown if they can’t escape.
What to do:
Build a temporary ramp using a pool float, sturdy board, or even a rolled-up towel that leads to the edge.
Use a pool skimmer or leaf net to gently lift floating animals to the side.
Always wear gloves to protect yourself and the animal.
Prevention tips:
Cover pools when not in use.
Install wildlife escape ramps, available at many pool supply stores.
Check your pool each morning during active wildlife seasons.
Storm Drains and Sewer Grates: Animals like ducklings, toads, and squirrels may fall through gaps.
What to do:
If safe to access, lower a small bucket or basket with drainage holes tied to a rope for the animal to climb or be lifted in.
Gently scoop the animal with a net or container.
If you cannot access the animal safely, call your local animal services.
Prevention tips:
Report uncovered or broken grates to local authorities.
Advocate for wildlife-friendly grates in your neighborhood.
Window Wells: Window wells are notorious for trapping frogs, toads, snakes, and even young mammals.
What to do:
Place a sturdy stick, board, or rolled towel as a ramp at a gentle angle.
If the animal is not climbing out, use a gloved hand or container to gently guide it towards the ramp or lift it out.
Watch quietly from a distance to ensure it exits safely.
Prevention tips:
Install mesh covers over window wells.
Add permanent escape ramps (e.g., plastic grates) in areas where animals frequently fall in.
Dumpsters and Trash Bins: Raccoons, opossums, and squirrels may become trapped after scavenging.
What to do:
Set a wooden board or stick inside the dumpster to create a ramp. Ensure it's long enough to lean against the inside wall and stable enough to support the animal’s weight.
Leave the area to reduce stress and return in a few hours to check.
Never pour water, poke, or attempt to force the animal out, it may panic and injure itself.
Prevention tips:
Use wildlife-proof lids and close bins securely.
Avoid leaving trash bags outside overnight.
Encourage local businesses or apartments to wildlife-proof their dumpsters.
Building a Ramp:
Choose the right material: Use non-slippery items like wooden planks, textured plastic, or a towel-covered board.
Keep the angle shallow: The steeper the ramp, the harder it is to climb. Aim for 45 degrees or less.
Secure it: Anchor the ramp so it doesn’t shift when the animal steps on it.
Add texture: If the surface is too smooth, wrap it with a towel or duct tape to provide grip.
Water Safety
If an animal has been trapped in water, such as a pool or drain it may become cold, exhausted, or waterlogged. Birds in particular cannot fly when wet, and mammals may struggle to regulate their body temperature.
After removing the animal:
Move it to a quiet, warm, or sunny area away from people and pets.
Allow it time to dry off and recover without disturbance.
If the animal is breathing heavily, coughing, or appears weak after 30–60 minutes, call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately.
When to Call for Help
Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, animal control, or fire department if:
The animal is too large or dangerous to approach.
It shows signs of distress or injury.
Your rescue attempts haven’t worked after a reasonable amount of time.
The location is unsafe for you to access.
Use Animal Help Now to find professionals near you.
Help Prevent Future Traps
Many of these situations are preventable with small changes:
Cover window wells, pools, and dumpsters.
Install escape ramps in known trouble spots.
Check your yard and property regularly for wildlife hazards.
Secure trash, pet food, and other attractants.
Share this information with neighbors, especially if you live near wild areas.
Final Thought
Wild animals don’t understand the human world we’ve built, but with a little compassion and quick thinking, we can make that world safer for them. Whether it’s rescuing a toad from your window well or saving a raccoon from a dumpster, your actions matter. A moment of effort can give an animal a second chance at life.