When to Call for Help
Every week, PRWC receives calls from people who find wildlife and want to do the right thing. Some of those animals truly need help. Others are simply displaying normal wildlife behaviors that can look concerning if you are not used to seeing them. Calling us first is always the best place to start.
Young Animals Are Not Always Abandoned
One of the most common situations involves young animals that appear to be alone. Baby rabbits are often left in their nest because their mother only returns at dawn and dusk. Fledgling birds may spend time on the ground while learning how to fly. These animals are usually safer staying right where they are. A quick phone call helps us determine whether an animal actually needs to be rescued or is better off remaining in the care of its parents
Only Licensed Rehabilitators Can Provide Care
You must be licensed in the State of Florida to rehabilitate native wildlife. This is why we encourage you to call PRWC before attempting to help an animal on your own. Guidance from trained staff ensures the animal gets the right care and gives it the best chance at survival if it is truly sick, injured, or abandoned
What Happens After You Call
When a rescue is truly needed, our team will help determine the safest next step. PRWC relies heavily on members of the public and our trained rescue volunteers to help transport injured or orphaned wildlife to our hospital. Most animals arrive because someone in the community brought them to us after calling for guidance.
If a volunteer rescuer is available, we will reach out through our rescue network to see who can respond. Rescue availability can vary based on the time of day, location, and volunteer schedules. For this reason, we may ask that the finder safely contain the animal or continue to keep visual contact until help can arrive or until they are able to bring the animal to PRWC directly. Clear communication helps ensure the animal does not move or disappear before it can receive care.
Who to Contact for Non Native Animals or Pets
PRWC can only treat native Florida wildlife. Non native reptiles, exotic pets, livestock, and domestic animals must be handled by the appropriate agencies or organizations. For pets or domestic animals, please contact Animal Welfare League at 941-625-6720. If you are unsure who should handle a non native species, Charlotte County Animal Control can guide you at 941-833-5690.
Requesting Patient Updates
If you bring an animal to our hospital, updates are available by email only. This helps keep our phone lines clear for new emergencies. To request an update, email updates@prwildlife.org with your name, the type of animal, and the patient number if one was provided.
How You Can Help
Volunteers are essential to PRWC’s mission. With limited staff and more than 2,500 patients each year, we depend on volunteers in many areas. Rescue transport is only one way to get involved. Volunteers also support our hospital team, help with daily animal care, assist guests at the Education Center, and contribute to outreach, events, fundraising, and gift shop operations. Whether you have a few hours a week or occasional availability, your time directly helps protect injured and orphaned wildlife in Charlotte County and the surrounding areas.
Contact Us
For wildlife emergencies or guidance, contact PRWC at 941-637-3830.
Additional information, including FAQs, rescue tips, and visiting hours,
is available at www.prwildlife.org.
PRWC Education Center
3400 Ponce de Leon Parkway
Punta Gorda, FL
PRWC Wildlife Rehabilitation Hospital
223 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
