More than 50 animals have arrived at Lindsay Wildlife Experience with snap-trap injuries since January, and the Walnut Creek wildlife hospital needs neighbors' help to keep up.

The traps, set by homeowners to catch rats, are instead snaring squirrels, birds, and other non-target wildlife, according to Patch. The hospital's latest highlighted patient is an Eastern fox squirrel pulled from a snap trap placed near a bird feeder. A community member rescued the squirrel and brought it to Lindsay's veterinary team on First Avenue, where it is now receiving treatment.

The surge has strained supplies. Lindsay treats more than 5,000 sick, injured, and orphaned animals each year, and the nonprofit is asking for everyday items most residents already have on hand: fresh eggs, chicken thighs, dry dog or cat food, heating pads, unused baby bottles, flea and tick prevention products, brown paper bags, and Ziploc bags in sandwich, quart, or gallon sizes. The hospital also accepts gift cards to Costco, Safeway, or Sam's Club, financial contributions, and orders from its Amazon wish list.

Wildlife experts recommend alternatives to snap traps: pest-safe bird feeders, sealing entry points that allow rodents into homes, or hiring professionals to close gaps rather than setting traps that catch unintended animals.

Lindsay, the country's first wildlife hospital, is also building its largest-ever expansion. In May, the nonprofit broke ground on Ky and Laura's Nature Cove, a $2 million project that will house seven nonreleasable birds of prey, including Topaz, a golden eagle and animal ambassador, Diablo Magazine reported. The cove is expected to open in late October.

Lindsay is also urgently seeking homecare volunteers who care for recovering animals in their own homes until the animals are ready to return to the wild. The organization provides training, equipment, and food for volunteer caregivers. Interested residents can call the hospital hotline at (925) 659-8156 or visit lindsaywildlife.org.