Science Common Sense
515 - What is a wildlife rehabilitation program, and how do zoos participate?
A wildlife rehabilitation program is a place where animals that are injured, sick, or orphaned are taken care of and helped to recover so they can go back to their natural homes.
Zoos often participate in wildlife rehabilitation programs in several ways:
- Providing space and care: Zoos offer a safe place for the rehabilitation center to care for the animals.
- Expert care: Zoo veterinarians and staff help care for the animals and provide medical treatment.
- Specialized equipment: Zoos may lend equipment, like incubators or pools, to help care for specific types of animals.
- Release programs: Some zoos help with releasing rehabilitated animals back into the wild.
By working together, zoos and wildlife rehabilitation programs can help animals in need and teach people about the importance of protecting and caring for wildlife.