Wildlife Resources

How to Become a Wildlife Rehabilitator in Florida

State and Federal permits are required before anyone can rehabilitate wildlife. A state permit is required for all wildlife rehabilitation; an additional federal permit is required to rehabilitate migratory (native) birds. These permits do not allow an individual or organization to maintain non-releasable wildlife; additional state and federal permits are mandatory for this.

To learn more about requirements in Florida, visit https://www.flrules.org/gateway/ChapterHome.asp?Chapter=68A-9 and scroll down to 68A-9.006 Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit.

For permit application and additional information, visit http://myfwc.com/license/captive-wildlife/#rehab

Additionally, if you choose to rehabilitate migratory birds, you will be required to have a migratory bird permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service. For information visit: https://www.fws.gov/service/3-200-10b-migratory-bird-rehabilitation