Question 1

Why can’t I care for wildlife myself?

Accepted Answer

It’s illegal, and can be dangerous to care for wildlife without a license.
Wild animals can carry diseases and parasites, and transmit them to people or pets.
Even animals that appear healthy usually require some medical attention, in addition to food and water. Most species require specialized diets and housing in the long term. So it’s in the best interest of the animal to get it to a licensed facility quickly.

Question 2

Is CCEEC a wildlife veterinary clinic?

Accepted Answer

No. Wildlife rehabilitators work with veterinarians to treat injured and orphaned wildlife.
There are several local veterinarians who provide prescription medications, x-rays, surgeries, emergency treatments and other services.
Our rehabilitation program is designed to provide longer term care for wild animals until they can be released.

Question 3

Do I have to pay for anything?

Accepted Answer

No. However, we do welcome donations or memberships to help cover the cost of care.

Question 4

What will you do for the animal I bring?

Accepted Answer

This depends on what’s wrong with it. Some animals, such as healthy but orphaned bunnies or squirrels, require an intake exam, followed by proper food and housing until they can be released. Others, such as birds with broken wings, might require surgery, antibiotics, and therapy.
With the help of our sponsoring veterinarians, we will provide the best care we can.

Question 5

What will eventually happen to the animal I bring?

Accepted Answer

Our goal is always to get birds and mammals back into the wild where they belong.
In some cases, animals that can’t be released are “put to work” in our education programs, where we provide food, housing and medical care for life.
Some animals are transferred to other rehabilitation centers for more specialized care, or for use in education.
While we try our best to save whatever animals we can, we won’t let anything linger in pain. When an animal’s future holds no quality of life, the kindest thing we can do is to provide a release from pain through humane euthanasia.

Question 6

Can I have the animal back?

Accepted Answer

No. Once you’ve delivered the animal to us, our permits prohibit us from allowing any public contact with it.
Sometimes, as with an adult that may have established territory, we like to put the animal back where it came from. It may be returning to your property or your neighborhood, but we can’t give it to you to release there.
Young animals and immature birds are often released in areas where we know they will find the proper food and shelter. Some animals get a “soft release”, where we provide supplemental food and/or shelter until they are independent.

Question 7

Can I call to see how the animal is doing?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Since we receive hundreds of animals each year, it’s difficult for us to call and give updates on each. But we'll be happy to answer your call if you have questions.
Generally, we ask that you wait a few days after dropping the animal off before you call. After about three days, we usually have a better idea of how things will turn out.

Carbon County
Environmental Education Center

Wildlife Rehabilitation FAQ