A wildlife rehabilitator is usually a volunteer who takes in injured or banative animals and cares for them until they are strong enough to be released back into the wild. Many countries, including the United States and Australia, require applicants to pass a written test demonstrating knowledge of wildlife care, which leads to the issuance of a permit. When a wildlife rehabilitator is officially registered, her name and phone number are publicly listed in a directory so that anyone who finds an abandoned or injured animal can bring it in for help.
A wildlife rehabilitator rarely has medical or veterinary training and instead focuses on the animal’s daily care. He might, for example, feed a baanimal several times a day in a bottle. Some injured animals are taken to a veterinarian for treatment; however, if it appears that the animal will not be able to return to the wild after rehabilitation, it will most likely be euthanized humanely.
Although some nonprofit centers specialize in treating injured wildlife, most wildlife rehabilitators work from home. He or she might be an expert in a particular field. Some specialize in reptiles, such as snakes and lizards, while others may focus on bird care. He or she may work with a variety of animals, including squirrels, owls, and frogs. Bapossums, wombats, and kangaroos may be taken in the rehabilitator in Australia.
If you want to work as a wildlife rehabilitator, the first step is to volunteer with a trained rehabilitator or at a licensed wildlife center to see what the job entails and whether it’s right for you. Once licensed, you may be called at all hours of the day to assist with wildlife situations. This line of work is rarely paid and requires a high level of dedication. You must also keep in mind that these animals are not pets, and it is your responsibility to prepare them for release into the wild. It’s a difficult job because some animals will perish no matter how much assistance you provide. However, if you still want to work as a wildlife rehabilitator, it can be a very rewarding job.