Each year the Center admits approximately 200 birds, mammals and reptiles to the wildlife rehabilitation program.  The ultimate goal of the rehab program is to provide care and treatment to injured and orphaned wildlife and to release them back into the wild as soon as possible.

Erin O'Connell is the Wildlife Rehabilitator at Sharon Audubon Center.  She conducts medical examinations of injured wildlife and works with local veterinarians to provide treatment to the animals.  She also trains volunteers interested in assisting with our resident animal and rehabilitation animal care.  Erin also travels with our resident birds and reptiles across Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York to teach environmental education and conservation programs to thousands of school children each year.

Click here to learn about our resident animals.

A person who wishes to treat and care for an injured wild animal in Connecticut must have a Connecticut Rehabilitator's License. 

Some requirements include:
Aquire application from CT DEP
Applicant must:
       - be at least 18 years old
       - conduct 40 hours volunteer work  

         under a licensed rehabilitator.
       - pass a written examination

Most rehabilitators provide their services on a volunteer basis and appreciate donations to fund their operation.

Please note:  It is in the best interest of the animal that it be brought to a licensed rehabilitator as soon as possible for adequate treatment and greatest chance for survival and release.

Right:  A Wood Turtle that had been hit by a car.  The fractured shell was sealed with an epoxy cast so that it could heal slowly without risk of infection.  It was successfully released in July 1999.