Julia Ponder and Michelle Willette Co-author USFW report 'Evaluation of Current Scientific Literature on the Impact of Wildlife Rehabilitation on Conservation'
December 18, 2024
The Raptor Center

Evaluation of Current Scientific Literature on the Impact of Wildlife Rehabilitation on Conservation, explores the conservation impact of avian wildlife rehabilitation through a comprehensive review of scientific studies and identification of knowledge gaps. Prepared by contributors including Michelle Willette and Julia Ponder from The Raptor Center, the report highlights critical findings on post-release survival, breeding success, and indirect conservation benefits of rehabilitating injured and ill birds. It underscores the lack of standardized data collection and metrics for defining success in rehabilitation while offering actionable recommendations for leveraging wildlife rehabilitation as a valuable conservation tool. This work reflects TRC’s and the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine's ongoing commitment to advancing the science and practice of raptor care on a global scale.

Download report here.