Wildlife Rehabilitation

By Rebecca Schulze

Person who takes in orphaned and injured wildlife

Cares for them until healthy enough to release back into the wild

Is regulated by state and federal wildlife agencies

Educate others on wildlife and how to protect them

Nonprofit

What is a Wildlife Rehabilitator?

A proper place to send wildlife hurt or orphaned

Wildlife a second chance Help with endangered

and threatened species Assist in the monitoring

of disease Teaches people to co-

exist with wildlife

Is wildlife rehabilitation needed?

Written application Take an exam with score at

least an 80% Verbal interview Inspection of facility Getting all required permits

and licenses Letter from sponsoring

veterinarian and wildlife rehabilitator

To become a wildlife rehabilitator

Must be separate from humans and domestic animals

Indoor and outdoor cages Lockable doors Food preparation space Storage space Running water, electric, and

telephone Enclosures must be

appropriate for animals at the facility

Facilities

Buildings depend on what will be living in the enclosure Birds: flight pens Rabies Vector Species: unable

to dig out, double wire, signs Water for swimming Adults or juvenile animal

Enclosures

Vary depending on state In Pennsylvania

Rehabilitation permit Capture and transport

permit Educational use of

rehabilitation wildlife permit Endangered, threatened, or

Rabies Vector Species certification

Migratory birds-must have a US Fish and Wildlife Service Permit

Permits and Licenses

Gives wildlife a second chance to live

Watch health of animal populations in their area

Education of their communities on wildlife

Shows others that people are concerned with wildlife health and welfare

Is wildlife rehab worth it?

Hard to know- can’t tag or radio collar when releasing Advantages

Vaccinations-build an immunity Proper diet and worming-fat

storage Disadvantages

Lacking survival skills

Do the released wildlife survive?

“We have seen many animals released here that have gone on to produce young and live normal lives for many years.” – Angie Colarusso

Questions?

“If done correctly, wildlife rehab can actually produce a healthier start than most would receive in the wild”- Angie Colarusso

*All Pictures provided by Angie Colarusso.