WildCare -- About -- FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Click for Frequently Asked Questions about specific animal species
How can I volunteer to become a wildlife rehabilitator?
Most wildlife rehabilitation centers couldn't exist without animal care volunteers. WildCare is no exception! Becoming a volunteer at WildCare is easy. You must attend a New Volunteer Orientation, and commit to completing our series of four New Volunteer Training Classes followed by one 4-hour shift per week in the wildlife hospital.You can learn more about the specifics in our volunteer section, where we also provide orientation information and a schedule for classes. We are always seeking interested people. If you do not live in the Bay Area, please visit our list of wildlife rehabilitators for a listing of wildlife rehabilitation centers in your area.
What do I do if I find an ill, injured or orphaned animal?
Call WildCare’s Living with Wildlife Hotline (415-456-SAVE (7283)) immediately and click here for important information on what to do with an injured animal. Unless the animal is obviously injured and in distress, do not approach it unless directed to do so. Don’t become a kidnapper! Do not assume a young animal you find has been abandoned. Many animals leave their young for long periods of time while they forage. Please see our found an animal section for specific information on various species.
Are you open on holidays?
Yes, we are open 365 days a year. Courtyard hours may be abbreviated on Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Please call 415-456-7283 to confirm courtyard hours on those days.
Does WildCare have a privacy policy?
Yes. Please click for a PDF of WildCare's commitment to maintaining the privacy and security of our constituents.
What is WildCare's Federal Tax Identification Number or EIN?
WildCare is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Our EIN is 51-0172331.
How do I find out what happens to an animal I bring to you?
When you bring us an animal you will be given a patient record number. You may call us and use this number to follow the progress of the animal's treatment.
Can I be the one to release the squirrel I brought you?
We encourage our rescuers to assist in the release of animals they have brought to our facility, and we always try to accomodate requests to release. However, since the animal's needs must be our top priority, it is not always possible to accomodate rescuers' requests and schedules.
Can I keep an owl that I found as a pet?
No. Owls are wild animals and wild animals do not make good pets. Not only is it against the law to keep a native or migratory wild animal in your possession, it is also extremely difficult to give a wild creature the freedom, space and proper nutrition necessary for its survival. For their sake, and yours, wild animals should always live in the wild.
I have questions about Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)
For answers to your questions, please refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website at www.cdc.gov/flu/avian.