Wildlife

Wild Animal Welfare and Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation

Wildlife rehabilitation provides welfare benefits to individual animals and can support population conservation when done correctly.

Key Facts

Over 10,000 wildlife rehabilitation centres operate worldwide
Release success rates vary widely - well-managed programs achieve 60-80% survival post-release
Inappropriate habituation to humans is the primary cause of rehabilitation failure
Sibling groups and conspecific rearing improve welfare and release outcomes
Regulated rehabilitation standards exist in many countries but enforcement varies greatly

Welfare Considerations

Wildlife rehabilitation prevents suffering for individual animals. Quality standards, appropriate handling, and evidence-based release protocols are essential for good outcomes.

What You Can Do

Contact licensed wildlife rehabilitators if you find injured wildlife
Support local wildlife rehabilitation centres with donations
Advocate for rehabilitation standards and regulations in your region