Animal Rehabilitation

Please do not bring injured or orphaned wildlife to the Center for Wildlife Education at Georgia Southern University.

The Center for Wildlife Education at Georgia Southern University is NOT licensed and does not have the required state permits to operate as a rehabilitation facility. All wildlife rehabilitators in the state of Georgia must have proper permits from the GA Department of Natural Resources to operate and maintain proper rehabilitation facilities.

Injured or Orphaned Wildlife: What You Need to Know

Do not bring injured or orphaned wildlife to the Center for Wildlife Education at Georgia Southern University.
The Center is not licensed to rehabilitate wildlife and does not hold the necessary permits from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to accept or treat wild animals.

Who to Contact in a Wildlife Emergency

If you discover an injured or distressed wild animal, contact:

Georgia Department of Natural Resources Regional Office
Phone: 229-426-5267

These professionals are authorized and trained to respond to wildlife emergencies across the state.

Steps to Take If You Find an Injured Wild Animal

• Do not approach or handle the animal. Even if injured, wild animals may defend themselves and can cause harm.
• If the animal appears to be a baby or juvenile, leave the area after taking a brief assessment. The mother may be nearby and could return once the area is clear.
• Make note of important details including the animal’s location, visible injuries, size, color, and any distinguishing features.
• Contact your local DNR office or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. They have the proper equipment and experience to safely care for the animal.

Why Professional Wildlife Rehabilitation Is Important

Encounters between wild animals and urban environments often result in injuries caused by vehicles, power lines, windows, or entanglement in sports nets and other man-made objects. Licensed wildlife rehabilitators, working closely with veterinarians, provide specialized care to help animals recover and return to their natural habitats. In some cases, injuries may be too severe for a safe release.

By contacting the appropriate authorities, you are helping protect native wildlife and ensuring the safety of both the animal and the public.