How to Get Certified to Care for Wild Birds

Every year, thousands of injured or sick wild birds are cared for by wildlife rehabilitators around the country and then released back into the wild. Caring for these injured wild birds is a very rewarding experience. Native birds are, however, protected by federal law. To care for them legally requires federal permits and sometimes state permits. In addition, specialized training is needed for properly bringing injured or sick wild birds back to health so that they may once again live in the wild.

Things You'll Need

• Specialized training
• Governmental permits

Instructions

1. Gain experience working in a wildlife rehabilitation center with birds by volunteering. Most major communities have a wildlife center, and they are almost always in need of good, dedicated volunteers.

2. Take training courses on wild bird rehabilitation. Training courses are offered at various locations around the country through the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council and the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association.

3. Apply for federal permits. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service requests that individuals seeking a rehabilitation permit for migratory birds first contact the nearest regional office. A list of regional offices is available on the service's website.

4. Apply for state rehabilitation permits. Many states require wild bird rehabilitators to obtain permits or a license. You can contact your state's fish and game department about any requirements and the application process.

Tips & Warnings

• Keeping wild native birds is prohibited and punishable by federal law without the proper permits.

References

• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
• International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council
• The National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association

Resources

• University of Minnesota