Reasons why animals are admitted to wildlife rehabilitation centers in Canada

Abstract

A retrospective analysis was performed using more than 21 000 patient records from three large centers across Canada in order to determine the reasons for the presentation and outcome of wildlife brought into wildlife rehabilitation centers in Canada. Results suggest that up to 97% of wild animals brought into wildlife rehabilitation centers are thought to be directly or indirectly linked to anthropogenic causes. Trauma was the leading reason recorded for 61% of all cases admitted to wildlife rehabilitation centers. Orphaned wildlife was also a key reason why animals were admitted to wildlife rehabilitation centers in Canada. This research will help wildlife rehabilitators and agencies be aware of the reasons for animal admission to rehabilitation centers and provide opportunities to develop mitigation strategies to potentially minimize human impact on indigenous wildlife.