About Wildlife Rehabilitators
If you find wildlife which appears to be sick, injured or truly orphaned and you want to help, getting the animal to a wildlife rehabilitator is its best change for survival. The NJ Department of Fish and Wildlife maintains an up-to-date, state-wide list of Wildlife Rehabilitators by species on its website.
NJ Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
Basic Facts About Injured or Orphaned Wildlife:
Only a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or rehabilitation facility should handle or treat a wild animal. New Jersey has an extensive network of organizations, agencies, and individuals who rescue wild animals in need. The primary goal of any wildlife rehabilitator is to increase an animal’s chances of surviving in the wild once the animal is released. Most rehabilitators are volunteers, not government agencies, and will appreciate a monetary donation to help support the animal that you bring them. Flat Rock Brook is not licensed by the state to take or rehabilitate sick, injured or orphaned animals.
Wild animals are not pets. It is best for both you and the animal, to leave the animal in the wild and respect and appreciate it in its natural habitat. It is unlawful to keep native wild animals without a license. Be aware that wild animals can carry diseases that can be harmful to humans.
Orphaned animals are best cared for by their natural parents. The most helpful step you can take is to ensure that the animal is located where its parent will find it. In most cases, baby animals that you find are not abandoned or orphaned. Leave them where they are, and their parents will probably find them.
Do not release animals at Flat Rock Brook.
Wild animals from your yard such as raccoons or squirrels and pets such as turtles and fish cannot be released on Flat Rock property. This is a violation of Englewood City Ordinance #1953.These introduced animals will not survive here and will disrupt the balance of the Center’s animal populations.
