FAQ – Most frequent questions and answers:
WHAT IS A WILDLIFE REHABILITATOR?
In the state of Connecticut, only those possessing a state custodial permit are allowed to temporarily keep recuperating animals. An additional federal permit is required to rehabilitate most wild birds. This license is used for the legal care of injured, sick or orphaned wildlife by trained state-appointed volunteers with the goal of releasing that wildlife back into the wild.
ARE REHABILITATORS PAID?
Although appointed by the state, the rehabilitator’s efforts are fully voluntary. Rehabilitators are neither paid nor reimbursed for their expenses or time. Donations may be accepted, however.
WHAT DOES THE CWRA PROVIDE?
NETWORKING & SUPPORT
– Provide the public with assistance for distressed wildlife through our network of trained volunteers, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and veterinarians
– Assist other states with implementation of CWRA’s model policy which allows rehabilitators to safely care for rabies vector species
– Provide access to inexpensive supplies for rehabilitators through quantity purchases and donations
– Create networking opportunities for members through regular meetings. Public meetings are held twice a year for both members and non-members.
For information about our next “open to all” meeting, please subscribe to our email list at the bottom of this page, right-side, under “NOTIFY ME”.
EDUCATION
– Teach rehabilitation skills to members and prospective permittees through regular seminars and workshops
– Partner with the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection in developing rehabilitator certification exams
– Educate the public and the media about coexisting with wildlife and helping them resolve distressed and nuisance wildlife problems
Manage a wildlife hotline to assist the community with wildlife issues
– Inform members about issues affecting rehabilitators and wildlife
HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
Become part of our growing network of state-appointed volunteers who help injured and orphaned wildlife. Having a state license is not necessary. Membership is open to everyone; individuals and organizations are encouraged to join.