Wildlife rehabilitation is the process of rescuing, caring for, and releasing injured or orphaned animals back into the wild. Zoos and wildlife centers often work together in these efforts, providing medical care, shelter, and training to help animals regain their strength and survival skills. Wildlife rehabilitation is essential for species conservation, as it allows animals to return to their natural habitats and continue contributing to their ecosystems.
Zoos play an important role in supporting rehabilitation programs by offering expertise, funding, and resources. Many zoos have dedicated rehabilitation centers for native species, working with local organizations to rescue animals in need. Rehabilitation efforts also raise awareness about human impacts on wildlife, such as vehicle collisions, habitat loss, and pollution. By educating the public on these issues, zoos encourage people to adopt practices that reduce harm to wildlife. Wildlife rehabilitation embodies the zoo’s mission of conservation, showing that every animal deserves a second chance.