Wildlife

Wildlife Rehabilitation and Welfare

Wildlife rehabilitation provides a welfare safety net for injured and orphaned animals but faces significant resource and standards challenges.

Key Facts

Wildlife rehabilitation success rates vary widely by species and injury type
Many species, particularly birds of prey and deer, have low survival rates in rehabilitation
Wildlife rescue organisations rely almost entirely on volunteers and donations
Stress caused by capture and handling can itself compromise rehabilitation outcomes
Decision-making around euthanasia in wildlife rehabilitation requires clear protocols

Welfare Considerations

Wildlife rehabilitation is an important welfare service, providing care and opportunity for recovery to injured and orphaned animals. However, not all rehabilitation is welfare-positive. Prolonged captivity in inappropriate conditions, unsuccessful attempts at release, and delayed euthanasia in hopeless cases can cause additional suffering. High-quality wildlife rehabilitation prioritises welfare throughout and is guided by clear protocols.

What You Can Do

Support accredited wildlife rehabilitation organisations with donations
Know who to call in your area for injured wildlife
Avoid attempting wildlife rehabilitation without proper training and facilities
Advocate for regulation and standards in wildlife rehabilitation
Support euthanasia decisions that prioritise ending suffering over futile rehabilitation