We need serious help in Alabama. Our State has declined from over 100 licensed wildlife rescues/rehabilitators to just 13. That's 13 for our ENTIRE state. Out of those 13, only 3 can help animals like raccoon, fox, bat, skunk, etc, AND you have to live within a certain distance for the wildlife rescue to help at all. These animals are considered Rabies Vector Species (RVS) and our state absolutely hates them, however they will hunt/kill RVS with no issue. Our citizens are at risk because they have no place to take wildlife, when the animals are in need. The few facilities we have are constantly full and generally can't help once “baby season” is in full force.

When help can't be found, this causes major issues. Some finders will try to help the wildlife themselves, which can be dangerous for both the finder and animal if not done properly. This is also illegal in Alabama. The other options are to kill the animal or leave the animal to die. This is cruel and inhumane when wildlife rehabilitators could be available.

We have a department in Alabama titled “The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources” that is responsible for issuing permits to those qualified to become wildlife rehabilitators but they won't issue permits. They've flat out refused to issue new permits for anyone wanting to help RVS animals. They also ignore applications that are submitted by citizens interested in becoming wildlife rehabilitators. They not only ignore them, they refuse to respond at all when citizens ask for a status.

It's clear that the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (who is also responsible for issuing hunting permits) DOES NOT care about Conservation. This must change. Citizens want help for our wildlife. We want NO limit to the number of wildlife rehabilitators in our state. We want restrictions removed and no limits to the number of RVS wildlife rehabilitators in our state. We also want ALL applications to be responded to, in writing, within 60 days of submission. If the permit is denied, we want clear information in writing as to why the permit was denied. These changes will help our citizens and our wildlife tremendously.

Thank you for your support!