How to become a wildlife rehabilitator

How to become a Wildlife Rehabilitator

Becoming a wildlife rehabilitator involves several steps, including education, gaining experience, obtaining necessary permits, and networking within the wildlife rehabilitation community. Here's a general guide on how to become a wildlife rehabilitator:

• Education: Start by obtaining a solid foundation in biology, ecology, animal sciences, zoology, or a related field by earning a bachelor’s degree. While a degree isn’t always mandatory—many rehabilitators begin through volunteering—a background in a relevant field helps you understand wildlife biology, anatomy, physiology, natural history, and behavior.
• Gain Experience: Build hands-on skills by volunteering or interning at wildlife rehabilitation centers, veterinary clinics, animal shelters, or conservation organizations. This gives you valuable insights into species-specific care and the daily realities of rehabilitation work.
• Obtain Permits: Regulations vary across regions. In most areas, wildlife rehabilitators must obtain permits from local wildlife agencies—and if working with migratory birds, a federal permit is required. These often involve background checks, mentoring periods, and passing exams.
• Training and Certification: Consider courses or workshops specifically designed for wildlife rehabilitation. Certification programs from organizations like the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association (NWRA) or the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (IWRC)—including credentials like CWR (Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator)—can enhance your expertise and credibility.
• Network and Volunteer: Connect with rehabilitators, veterinarians, biologists, and conservationists through community outreach or at wildlife centers. Volunteering not only helps build skills but also demonstrates commitment and opens doors to mentorship and permit opportunities.
• Start Small: Begin with less complex species such as songbirds, squirrels, or rabbits to build competence and confidence before working with more challenging or larger wildlife.
• Continuing Education: Keep your knowledge up-to-date via workshops, webinars, conferences, or relevant literature. Fields like wildlife rehabilitation evolve rapidly, so ongoing learning is key to providing high-quality care.

Certifications, Training, and Memberships
There are several certifications and membership programs available to support and validate your career in wildlife rehabilitation:

• National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association (NWRA): Offers membership and the Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator (CWR) credential, which reflects professional standards in wildlife care. Continuing education is required to maintain certification.
• International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (IWRC): Provides training courses and certifications such as CWR and CWR-Medical (CWRM), focusing on wildlife handling, triage, medicine, and rehabilitation techniques.
• State Wildlife Agencies: Many regions require licenses or permits, which may include training hours, exams, and mentorship. These requirements vary, so it’s important to consult the appropriate local agency.
• Continuing Education Credits (CEUs): Programs like CWR require rehabilitators to complete a set number of CE hours every two years to maintain certification and stay up to date with current practices.

Internships or Apprenticeships
These provide essential hands-on training under experienced guidance. Look for opportunities at:

• Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers: Many centers offer seasonal internships or volunteer programs focused on animal intake, triage, feeding, and release procedures.
• Zoos and Aquariums: Some institutions include wildlife rehabilitation units and offer internships in animal care, education, and rescue.
• Non-Profit and Conservation Organizations: Especially those working with specific species or habitats often offer field-based rehabilitation training.
• Government Wildlife Agencies: Regional or national wildlife programs may offer internships that combine rehabilitation work with regulatory or educational duties.
• Veterinary Clinics and Universities: Clinics and institutions with a focus on wildlife or exotic animals may provide clinical or research-based training in wildlife medicine and care.