What is a Wildlife Rehabber?

Wildlife rehabbers may work individually or within groups. These may be small community groups or larger organizations throughout the world. Some veterinarians or wildlife agencies may be available to assist the rehabbers with medical supplies and treatments and food.

Their skills are learned by hands on experience with helping these animals and passed along to others that seek those skills. There is no official formal education required. The rehabber works to educate the public as to how to identify animals in need versus animals that do not require help.

Wildlife rehabbers work all year long. Much time is devoted to their cause. Some baby wildlife must be feed every two hours for weeks at a time until they can nurture for themselves. Some treatments for injured animals may require special bandages and medicines and a little extra TLC (tender loving care). Though their demands are tough, the rehabbers realize the rewards are greater. Not in monetary terms, as most rehabbers are compensated very little for the money they contribute themselves to their cause. The true reward is in knowing they have helped to provide a normal or useful life to a wild animal in need.