I rescued a house sparrow when she was approximately seven days old. I claimed her as a pet and had her examined by a veterinarian, who provided a written report. The examination confirmed that she was healthy, although she had a broken left leg. The veterinarian stated that this injury would not affect her normal quality of life in captivity. I was also informed that house sparrows are legal to own as pets in California. From the time I rescued her, I hand-fed her every day from approximately 6:00 a.m. until nighttime and personally cared for her until she was one month old. During that time, I raised her as my pet and developed a strong bond with her. I later sought a second opinion from WildCare in San Rafael, which offered free veterinary care for my sparrow, Ducky. They assured me that Ducky would be returned to me after the examination. When I brought Ducky in, they asked what I planned to do with her. I clearly and repeatedly confirmed that I intended to take her back because she was my pet. Cate Mason informed me that the examination would be completed by that evening or the following morning. After receiving no update, I sent an email that evening requesting information about Ducky's condition. WildCare then called me and stated that Ducky was malnourished and unhealthy and therefore had to be euthanized. I told them that this was not true, as my own veterinarian had already examined her and confirmed that she was healthy. I asked them to return my pet to me. They replied that they would first contact my veterinarian. After I contacted my veterinarian and participated in a three-way call with WildCare, they informed us that they had already euthanized my pet, Ducky. read more

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This review is the day after surrendering a blind fledgeling songbird, the third wild animal I've involved Wildcare with. My intention is to inform others of what I did not understand prior to surrender, that, in my opinion, is the difference between life yesterday and death today. Anytime a wild animal is found in distress, or in a distressing situation, there are many factors to consider, and in this case my only focus was on getting the bird to Wildcare as fast as possible. Had I known then what I know now, I would have considered Wildcare policy and decided to care for the bird on my own - understanding that this is of course no guarantee of saving the birds life. Yesterday the fledgeling finch clumsily landed by me as I was walking on a fire road used by mountain bikers. It's of course unusual for any wild animal to come close to a human; I observed and protected it as bikers went past and eventually picked it up. She did not have eyes, and there were no signs of injury - perhaps born without eyes. I looked up and saw lots of bird activity, so had a good idea where her nest was. Obviously her blindness is not feasible for surviving in the wild, so I took her home and called Wildcare after-hours explaining her condition. I made clear that I assume Wildcare will evaluate her, and if she is otherwise healthy, return her to me as I am willing to care for her needs longterm. The Wildcare volunteer, nor anyone else that I communicated with since then, corrected my assumptions that she could be returned to me if otherwise healthy. Marin Humane came and picked her up for the night, saying that Wildcare "loves" unusual cases such as her missing eyes - I felt optimistic and grateful. I made sure to repeat my willingness to care for her longterm this morning on Wildcare's voicemail - I understand messages can get lost from one person to another. Before calling me back Wildcare euthenized her, saying during our call that their intention was to give her the best life. This type of limited hangout languaging meant to purposely avoid the truth is the greatest wrong to me. If their highest priority is for a bird that is not in pain or suffering to be alive, they'd have let me take care of her. They took her life because her need for human care to survive longterm falls through the cracks of legality, and this is what I want them to be honest about...but they won't, so here I am. Given all of the times I stated my desire to care for her post evaluation, the least someone could have done is say that wild animals are never released back to a human for longterm care. The first animal I surrendered to Wildcare was a baby chipmunk with an infection. They told me he was a vole and euthenized him, saying that they did not have the staff needed to supervise him overnight. A few months ago I surrendered an adult bird with a neck injury who asphyxiated itself after eating in their care. Both of these cases were out of my realm of ability to care for, and I was also empathetic towards Wildcare's limitations. But yesterdays fledgeling was well cared for by it's mother, and had an excellent chance of survival longterm with care that I could have provided. read more

Great place, great cause, and friendly staff. It's not a huge facility, but there's a lot of heart that goes into it. They have an intake process where we can bring in injured wildlife and have up-close encounters with their resident animals. Great place to bring kids for a short and easy outting. Support them however you can. read more

WildCare - Animal Shelters Near Me - San Rafael, California

Three times now, whether because of fallen fledglings, an injured pigeon, or a cedar waxwing with a fracture, Wildcare has been the only local wildlife rehabilitation center to step up for birds in need of help. All other options on this side of the bridge said no, either due to capacity limitations or avian flu concerns. After weeks of expert care and healing, I drove to Marin and back to return the mended waxwing to his neighborhood. Thank you so much, Wildcare staff and volunteers, for helping all animals. read more

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My friend had an injured sparrow. She called the San Rafael Wildlife who said they would take care of her leg for free. When she got there they took songbird and euthanized no questions asked. Why would you say you would take care of it and fix leg and then do nothing but euthanasia read more

Love Wildcard , their staff and their constant dedication to saving animals here in Marin . Please always support them when you decide to donate to a local chat in Marin . read more

Thank goodness for WildCare and all the attention and care they are able to provide to injured and orphaned animals in our community. Thank you ever so much read more

I reached out to Wildcare about an injured bird . They got back right away and we're even able to offer me advice based on a photo of the bird. They are simply the best! read more

Contacted for assistance with a fledgeling hummingbird I found this morning. Called me back 5 hours later, when I had already found assistance. The woman who called still told me to go to "LA Hummingbird Rescue". I told her I'd gotten in contact with a woman named Terry Maeser, who I vetted thoroughly and felt comfortable bringing the bird to. She insisted this was inadequate, and when I affirmed that I was very confident in my decision she said "never heard of her" and (I think) hung up on me? SUPER weird experience coming from a "professional". Anyway, did more research into the rude lady's suggestion, and the funny part is Terry Maeser IS LA Hummingbird Rescue. Feeling very confident in my decision, but less-so about the "expertise" of WildCare. read more

I've been taking animals in need to Wildcare since I was a little girl in the late 60s. We're so lucky to have this place in San Rafael. For wild animals in need, this is the go to place. Recently, I had questions about how to exclude a squirrel family form my attic. They were extremely helpful. Thank you, Wildcare, for all that you do. read more

There are so many reasons to love (and support! And get involved with) WildCare. From the animal rescues, special kids' programs, amazing rescues and rehabilitations, educational experiences, and so much more. Whether you are touring the facilities, volunteering, fostering, or getting your kids involved, you will receive a thousand more times than you give. Do tour the Facilites--it is a special experience. Volunteer opportunities are expanding, from what I understand, now that covid is less of a threat, and the educational programs are fantastic. Also, if you live in Marin County, please remember that WildCare is the go to place for wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. We found a baby owl that had fallen from its nest and WildCare took it in, cared for it, and when it never learned to hunt on its own, it transferred it to the bird sanctuary near Pt. Reyes. We were kept updated throughout the owl's journey. Similar wonderful stories abound with other birds we've found. And, sadly, a fox showed up at our gate that looked very crazed. WildCare advised Marin Humane, and an officer was sent to capture it. We were warned to stay away and keep our dog and other animals away as it likely had rabies. WildCare advised us how to decontaminate the entire area. Again, they go above and beyond. read more

This afternoon I had some time to kill, so I decided to follow the creek that flows behind the business complex at 2nd and Lindaro. I was hoping to find a break in the fence so I could walk to the water's edge and enjoy some solitude while eating my lunch. As I followed the creek, I crossed Lindaro and continued my walk across the back side of a parking lot parallel to the creek. The creek is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, date palms, saw grass and other native varietals. When finally I saw a break in the path. However this break was no ordinary break. The fence opened up onto a wooden foot bridge that spanned the creek and to my surprise, at the end of the bridge was the entrance to "wildcare." The entrance was intriguing and reminded me of the entrance to the African Safari ride at Disneyland. I walked up to the gate and learned that this is the home of "wildcare," a non-profit organization that rescues, treats and then releases wild beasts, birds and reptiles of all kinds. Passing through the gate, I was immediately inside a roomy courtyard with fenced enclosures housing everything from an opposum (sleeping), a Barn Owl, a Turkey Vulture named Vladimir, a Pelican named Winter, several Terns, a couple of squirrels and various other animals. A lady noticed my meanderings and introduced herself as a volunteer at the facility. She did not give me her name (and I'm sorry not to have asked for it) but she proceeded to explain the purpose of the organization. She gave me a mini-tour of their educational room replete with at least 100 stuffed varieties of mammals, birds and snakes and even a giant bear in the corner. Educating students and adults alike is a large part of "wildcare's" mission. She then took me to the hospital wing and showed me the white board whereupon under each month's headings are written the names of all species that were released. The center is open 365 days a year and daily feedings take place at 12:30 pm and 4:30 pm in the outer courtyard. The public is welcome. The staff of approximately 300 is 90% volunteer and while no admission is charged, donations are greatly appreciated. So on a lazy afternoon when you are looking for something to do, head for "wildcare." You'll be enriched and will walk away with a smile on your face, knowing that our feathered, furry and scaley friends can find refuge there in times of strife. read more

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It's such a gift to live near this spot. Thought, kind, and deep knowledge of wild animal rescue means that you can bring any wildlife you find injured or in trouble here for them to take care of. I found an injured barn owl on the side of the road, stunned and only a foot away from the edge of the road. I wrapped him in my coat and drove home. They told me to put him in a box with towels and keep him in a dark, quiet place with no food or water. Also brought them a tiny duckling that was abandoned. Love the loving, capable hands at this place. read more

WildCare - Animal Shelters Near Me - San Rafael, California

This is the email I just sent Wildcare about my experience: Please share my thank you with the head of your organization and the wonderful people who helped me. I brought an injured wild turkey to Wildcare this Saturday. He was laying by the side of the road in Walnut Creek. After making many unsuccessful calls I came upon Andrea at Wildcare. I was so relieved to have such a compassionate person who genuinely cared on the other end of the phone. When I got there the Doctor and another kind person helped me immediately. The Doctor looked at the turkey right away and came out to see me. She was so kind and caring. I really can't thank you enough. I didn't know your organization existed until today. I am glad I found you and I am grateful for the work that you do! Thank you! read more

About a month ago a raccoon began illegally subletting my roof. I started to research humane eviction companies only to learn that in California it's illegal to trap and release an animal somewhere else (they don't know where their water source is and surely you've dumped them into some other animals territory so it's essentially a death sentence). What this means is that every "humane" company you call is just going to trap them and humanely euthanize them. Sad face. I had really grown to like the little trash panda. So I called up WildCare. It was pretty hard to get someone on the phone during open hours, but after a few messages I spoke to a really knowledgeable woman named Barbara. She gave me some advice about deterrents that were dog friendly and suggested they come out to do an inspection, add deterrents, and figure out what areas need to be sealed up. To do this, we had to connect WildCare with my landlord which took a good amount of time given schedules. Guess what happened during that time? Well the little squatter had babies. So now my skylights are mobbed with these adorable little washbears trying to break into my house as my dog and I cower in fear. At long last, we were able to schedule an inspection with Junio, their raccoon expert. He came out today and did a thorough investigation, listening to all my anecdotes about where they party, how they walk up the stairs like humans, and where we see them come and go (when the tech bros next door throw a rooftop party). He showed me where they sleep, talked to me about the babies growing up and how that horrible screeching we hear is just the momma raccoon pushing them to be more independent, warned me about their toxic poop (and removed it for us), and the entire time documented it with photos so he could show me once he climbed down off the roof. Junio is very polite and helpful and he's definitely an expert. Really excited to see what fixes he puts into place, and will probably update to 5-stars when that job is done! read more

I love that the bay area offers so many animal and wildlife rescues! Wildcare is a wildlife hospital and nature education center. Albeit small, it has some great things going for it in regards to education. + Outside, you'll find varying birds, including pelicans, ducks, and even an owl. Inside, snakes and lizards can be viewed. + While we were visiting, an employee was discussing facts about snakes, and even allowed us to touch one. + The building itself is adorable! It really is a quaint, serene (but not necessarily quiet,) setting once inside the gate. + My son enjoyed playing doctor to the faux birds inside the play area. read more

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Update: I received a text from the person caring for them saying they were ready for release in the next few days. As the conversation progressed regarding setting up a time to meet them at my home, the tone became increasingly pushy with them asking multiple times to enter my property for the release even though I told them that I lived in a gated area and did not feel comfortable with a stranger coming to my property without me being home. Then the attitude completely changed and they stated that they had to be released that day because they work a full time job and need to get everything released that day so they could clean the cages. I reiterated that I would be able to arrange to be home the following morning and they said they'll just release them somewhere else. The expectation for people to be immediately available like this is absurd. I was very uncomfortable with this exchange and it was very disappointing to have this interaction after having such a great initial experience. A read more

It's perfect for kids (and Nanny) I'm a nanny taking care of 2 years old twins. They are now so excited about animals and this place is perfect for them! It's free and we get to see a pelican get fed and they have some other animals too, like hawks, owls, squirrel, and snakes (probably some more). This was our first time and we are definitely come back! read more

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This animal refuge may be small, but it does the heart good to walk in and read the stories of rescue, rehabilitation and healing. It is free of charge but by the end of your visit, You may want to give a generous donation. The beautiful animals (hawks, pelican, owl, vulture, squirrels...) are well cared for and the volunteers who care for them are friendly. There is a lot of free parking, too. read more

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This is an amazing facility and group of people. The staff is very professional and friendly. You can tell they care deeply about the wellbeing of their animals. We brought in an injured hummingbird. The staff was extremely informative and knowledgeable, quickly got the hummingbird set up to be treated, and explained to us the treatment plan and how we can receive updates on its condition. They're truly doing some amazing working here, and their stats speak for themselves. The staff and volunteers treat and work with 4000 wild animals per year, and 89% of patients are released back into the wild as healthy animals! They're doing truly amazing work here. We'll be making our donations to help and hope you'll consider donating too! read more

This service is amazing. They care for wild animals hat are abandoned or injured and are lightly staffed (Dustin Alexander and a few others) and about 450 beautiful volunteers. We went yesterday for a behind the scenes tour. They do so much for so many with so little. Their habitats are wonderful with "ambassadors " like Mohave the desert tortoise, a Peregrine falcon, red tailed hawk, owls, pelican and so many other wonderful personalities. They also teach thousands of schoolchildren witty school visits and their on site education program. Thank you all at WildCare for all you do! read more

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FANTASTIC. After stumbling upon a sick baby pigeon I went to various vet hospitals around san francisco looking for someone, anyone, to take in the poor bastard. "Sorry, we don't do that here." "We could definitely do it! But you'd have to take all financial responsibility." "Oh, how good of you!! But we don't take in pigeons." "Oh, sure, we'll take it, but we're just going to euthanize." Hmmmmmmm, not sure they're in the right profession... Wildcare was refreshing in that they are driven by the well-being of the animals, not money. They even let me release him after a few months. read more

When my best friend had a bird obsessed cat, she and I were making the pilgrimage to Wildcare a few times a month with bloody, broken birds in shoe boxes. When you drop an animal off there, they'll give you a tracking number and you can call them and check in on the animal. If the animal survives, you can ask to be there when the animal is released. They will try to release the animal where the rescuer found them. If you're the type who has to do something when you see an animal in distress put Wildcare's 24 hour/365 days a year hotline number on speed dial: 415-456-7283. Also, the "Found an animal?" link from the home page of their website (wildcaremarin.org) has advise for just about every type of wildlife you might encounter. Wildcare doesn't discriminate! They'll accept all animals, even the ones considered pests. I found out about Wildcare because I had found a beautiful stark white pigeon with a broken wing and Wildcare was the only organization who could take him. SF Animal Care and Control gave me their number because Animal Care and Control would have had to kill him. read more

Spring 2013 arrived in my neighborhood accompanied by the most enthusiastic mockingbird you've ever imagined. This guy was singing the songs of every bird around and even doing an incredible impression of the night song of crickets. Unfortunately, this mockingbird raised the ire of some new neighbors who were apparently disturbed by his songs. One evening I saw the dad, a man in his 60's, encouraging his son, maybe 20, who was home on spring break, to shoot the mockingbird. Luckily, the mockingbird flew away unharmed. The next day, I heard some shots being fired from an air rifle and the next thing I know I've got a crow in my backyard who is bleeding quite a bit and unable to fly. Luckily, I was home when this happened so able to keep my dog from finishing what our neighbors started. I got the injured crow into an outdoor enclosure and called the humane society. Now, nearly a month later, I went to WildCare to pick up the mostly rehabilitated crow. He still has the bb inside him but has regained the ability to fly. I brought him back to where the rest of his set hangs out during the day and released him under a large tree. He flew up and perched on a branch and shortly thereafter was joined by some other crows. He's flown off now toward what we can hope will be a full recovery. Thank you for rehabilitating the injured corvid, WildCare! As I write this, the mockingbird is joyfully going through his whole repertoire. read more

We hadn't been here in years. Last time we were here we took my s-i-l (who is a wildlife rehabilator) for a visit. She was given a behind-the-scenes tour and left feeling very impressed. At first glance the facility seems very simple but it is clean and kept up. You can see many birds up close ---from hawks to a pelican, turkey vulture, a rabbit, crows,cormorant, ducks, squirrels. These creatures are unreleasable due to injuries often inflicted by idiotic and insensitive people who think that the critters are for target practice with their b b guns or other means. There are many more birds and animals taken care of behind the scenes in their hospital. The largest animals they've taken care of are coyotes. They offer programs for school kids and volunteer opportunities. read more

This place is so educational. I go whenever I'm in the area for their 4:30 pool bird feedings. See the tortoises, the squirrels, the crows, the ducks, pelicans... They've got fun critters for every animal lover. I have large windows and birds are attracted to them like moths to flames. Since they always get lucky and never break their little necks, WildCare always takes them in or gives me advice to get my little feathered friends back on their own. Last summer, when kids found a baby squirrel who had fallen out of its tree nest, WildCare took him in and issued him a little patient id#. I could call any time and check on his progress until he was relaxed back to the wild. It's mostly fairy tale happy endings at WildCare. And if you have a thing for old taxidermied mammals, check out the learning center inside. Those masterpieces of taxidermy have been around long since I started kindergarten and you can see evidence of how many little hands have petted them (against signs' pleads and verbal warnings I would imagine) over the years. Oddly enough, it makes me smile. read more

My husband and I recently used WildCare's Wildlife Solution Service. We got a free appraisal of our problem and expert help solving it... in a humane and eco friendly way... NO POISONS. What a great organization... not only tell you how to solve wildlife problems, but for a fee, they come out and do the work... what's not to like. It's really great to know that work you need done anyhow, can also help such a tremendous community resource like WildCare. So happy we tried it. Marianne read more

In the hospital, they take all wildlife. You can track the animal that you bring in, but you do have to call them to get updates. They transport wildlife to other specialized facilities for better care if need too. Their physical location is beautiful. It's open daily and is one of the few places you can see seabirds like pelicans and cormorants up close. The feedings are fun to watch too. The spotted owl, falcon, hawks, and other resident wildlife are amazing as well. 5 stars definitely. So many volunteers dedicating so much time! Wildcare is awesome! read more

This place is awesome, they help pigeons, they run on donations so I'll be donating to these angels

What a wonderful organization. They took four orphaned wild turkeys that I brought in on behalf of a friend. They have a good rescue ranch for these turkeys and we are relieved. Its a great place to visit as well.... read more

For the first few months of sheltering in place, we delighted in watching a bird couple build a nest above our patio. The birds became so comfortable with us and our dog that they flew right past our faces with twigs to enhance the nest. When the eggs hatched, we were thrilled to hear the babies calling for food. Our neighbor's cat, unfortunately, took interest and, ultimately, jumped up onto a table and knocked down the next. The folks at Wildcare were so helpful, instructing us how to take the injured baby birds to the center. Though they were given oxygen, their puncture wounds were too severe and they didn't make it. I was grateful that we did what we could to help, thanks to Wildcare, and believe this organization is stellar. read more

I loved this place the moment I stepped foot inside to bring a baby deer mouse. Instantly signed up for their volunteer orientation. This place does amazing work. read more

Very impressed with the level of care given to animals at Wildcare. The grounds are amazing. Brought in a baby bird I found in a busy parking lot. Made a donation to their organization. The positivity made my day. read more

WildCare - Animal Shelters Near Me - San Rafael, California

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I was very impressed with the summer camps held here this year. The staff is knowledgeable and patient with all of the kids attending camp. The weekly camp price is a little high, but it is amazing what the kids learn during the week. They leave camp each day showing their parents all of the animals that were taken out that day for their class and how each one got hurt. This kind of camp will definitely have an impact on many young lives ! read more

About a year ago, I got a flat tire in a seedy area of Oakland. I had the silver bullet (my mini-van) towed to the nearest shady ass chop shop where they proceeded to overcharge me for the tire change AND make unwanted sexual advances. all this and i was extremely late to work. it was a good day. as i am speeding out of the parking lot, i see a crow with a damaged wing limping in the middle of a busy street. i am like, SHIT. i park the silver bullet sideways to block traffic (this seriously almost got me shot. like with a gun. i am not joking.) and scoop the sweet, scared crow into a box i have in the van (my van is like mary poppin's bag...motherfuckers got everything in it.), put him in the back and drive off to a chorus of, "you stupid fucking bitch! i'll murder you and then i'll come after your family!!!" to which i politely smile and wave and blow kisses. yes, i would hate me too. but this is a crow we are talking about! crows are AWESOME! anyway, i'm trying to think where the eff i'm going to take the crow...i mean, i can't take him to a normal vet...they aren't prepared for this kind of emergency. as i'm racking my brain it suddenly dawns on me, WILDCARE! duh, laura, you stupid bitch! (this is how i talk to myself. i'm sure it explains a lot.) Wildcare is an amazing organization located in San Rafael and is one of the few truly urban wildlife rehabilitation centers. WildCare's mission is to inspire a vital connection among, people, wildlife and the natural world, and they actively pursue this mission through nature education, wildlife rehabilitation and community outreach. Through partnerships with schools, collaborations with other organizations, educational programs and activities, internships and volunteer opportunities they make a positive difference in the community. It's an amazing place to volunteer to commune with all sorts of critters from the animal world. Truly awesome. They're also DESPERATELY need money and use it very wisely so it would be a fabu place to donate to! Oh, I also learned that if you see a hit Possum, pull over to check to see if she has babies in her pouch. This is apparently very common and then the babies die because the mama is dead. Sad :-( Oh yes, end of the story. On my drive over to Wildcare, I start to hear a little ruckus coming from the back. I turn around and what do i see? the crow has escaped from his box. He is now fancy footing around the back of the Silver Bullet, looking for treats perhaps? When he sees me checking him out, he starts to freak and begins flying around the van, squawking and pecking at me. It's like Alfred Hichcock's, The Birds. I'm screaming and slapping him away from me and generally freaking out. I mean, what the fuck kind of creepy diseases do you think a goddamn Crow has? I don't know and I certainly don't want to find out! Also, the pecking hurts and I'm about to cause a 52 car pile up! So, I pull off the freeway and open the door and he flies to freedom. I'm like, WTF? I THOUGHT YOU WERE DYING?!?!?! and so i call Wildcare and they tell me that often after birds sustain a minor injury, they will go into shock and it can take awhile for them to come out of it. So apparently, something happened to the crow, he went into shock in the middle of the street and i picked him up (probably causing more shock because crazy animal rescue lady was all up in his face and pushing him into a box and shit) and he recovered in my car. Then he began flying around like a g-d maniac and attempted to eat me. He was still very cute and it was my fault for not securing the cardboard box properly. Don't let this deter you from rescuing a crow or any other wild animal! For more info on how to get animals into wildcare, please see: http://form2.relevanttools.com/eis-cgi-bin/crpt?report=web&code=6228&templ=http://www.wildcaremarin.org/pages/foundananimal.html read more

Very limited for live animals. Cannot tour the hospital area. No staff to welcome us or give information. Drove a long distance to get here and spent less than an hour here. Disappointing! read more

EDIT: I'm leaving the original review below (slight edits for space), as it's still somewhat valid. I did, however, talk to a director at WildCare and should update my review. She was very nice and understanding, and I'll gladly accept that WildCare *does* care about the animals it takes in, and that the problems instead lie in organization (or lack of). Hopefully WildCare can find a way to solve those problems, in which case it will surely be wonderful and reflect how much people their care rather than their organizational skills. * My first serious review, and a different perspective from the others, it seems... I want to love WildCare, but I simply don't trust them and, from my experience, they've proven to be neglectful and incompetent. I've brought 6 birds to them - 5 pigeons and 1 loon. The loon was after the oil spill, and they told me upfront that they'd send him to a different rescue specifically for shore birds. So the real experience is with the 5 pigeons. Of those 5 pigeons, for every one I've requested to be notified upon release and made it clear I wanted them released where they were found, as pigeons mate for life and are very home-focused, and the concern isn't only about their health but also their happiness and the bird condition (like human condition, ya see?) if you will. I've insisted I could drive up within a couple hours of being called to pick them up and release them. The staff have agreed time and again and fed me their rhetoric that they make an effort to release birds where they were found (hence having to write where you found them on the sheet). Of these, not ONCE have they actually called me upon their release. Not ONCE! If they were making an effort to release them where they were found, then my offer to take them back and release them the same day would make sense to follow up on, yeah? No. Not once. Also, for 2 of those birds, they lost record of even having them (one was sorted in a couple days and they "found" him, but the other was never found/no record existed according them). It's this kind of incompetence and disorganization that makes me not trust WildCare. Last time, the woman explained that sometimes they just need the space... I can understand that as an exception. But considering my offer, clearly written on the page, is that I will come pick them up IMMEDIATELY and not once have they actually followed through, that's just bullshit. I explained this to the woman, and she promised they'd call. They never called. Also, I get the impression that they don't really even try to help animals with more than very mild injuries/illness. They treat animals with parasites, minor infections, etc... but I gather, from hints and what I've seen, that they rarely even attempt more than that, and instead just euthanize. If I wanted them euthanized, I could just have a vet here do that and save the trip, thankyouverymuch! Yet every few days they seem to waste money sending me letters, newsletters, and E-mails about all the great work they're doing with pictures of baby animals to tug at your heartstrings. Ugh! That's a charity for you, I guess. Again, I want to love WildCare. Upon the first visit, I thought they were a godsend. Between myself and the person I was with, we gave them a $300 donation. The next was $100, and tapered from there. The last time I clearly wrote "donation upon calling me for the bird's release" (though still... never called). Now... they're a last resort, and I'm doing everything financially feasible to avoid taking my current rescue to them (even calling vets tomorrow for an estimate on an operation - that's much I dread his fate being WildCare). Their heart may be in the right place, but their gross disorganization (how the hell do you lose record of a patient?) and apparent incompetence makes them far from the wonderful place most of these reviews make them out to be. So I suppose it's a matter of perspective... are you just trying to "rescue" a bird by bringing them there and then not following up on what happens/uninterested in the bird's overall well-being other than just health (though in addition to health, too... see rant about not really trying), or are you interested in getting the bird proper treatment then being released back to his/her mate and/or flock (bad enough going through rehabilitation hell... but then to be thrown into a foreign environment - poor guys)? If it's the former, WildCare's quick and easy and you don't really have to think about it. If it's the latter, avoid WildCare... most cases that they actually handle you can do yourself easily and cheaply (antibiotics and meds for parasites are generally under $20 per bottle... and that's about all they actually do, it seems - certainly the most common bird ailments). More severe cases... a vet if you have the money, or if not then go to WildCare (but you can be pretty sure they'll just euthanize them). read more

A fantastic place for both children and adults. I became a Wilcare fan after finding a lone juvenile possum. I didn't have the heart to leave it, as this was in a residential area full of dogs and cats so I wrapped it in a towel and transported it in a shoe box to Wildcare where it was nurtured and set free after an appropriate amount of time. I also once took a duckling I found, in a similar situation, to Wildcare with a similar result. Another time, my husband and I called Wildcare after discovering a large adult bobcat in our basement, and the staff there instructed us in how to deal with it properly (we left the door cracked and it came out on its own, that night). Other Bay Area residents have taken an amazing array of wildlife they have found in distress to Wildcare, such as a woman who reportedly found an injured mountain lion on the side of the road and somehow (?) wrapped it in a blanket, loaded it in her car and delivered it. However. Due to a generous donation Wildcare now has an emergency mobile unit they can send to pick up injured animals, or animals in distress. Call for the van at (415)-456-7283. In addition to saving wildlife, they offer classes, camp programs for kids, and a small 'zoo' consisting primarily of large birds that can't be re-released. This place is a gem-take your kids and go yourself. The staff are amazing. These people are *dedicated* to wildlife of all kinds and were some of the first responders to birds in distress after the recent oil spill. My husband and I donate money to them and receive their newsletter which is always full of great stories. They also participate in the 'Hungry Owl Project' so contact them and see if you qualify for your very own 'owl house'. read more

What a great surprise! And just blocks from downtown San Rafael. Kids and I stopped by not knowing what to expect and we met a Swainson's Hawk being shown by the docent. While we were learning about the variety of birds, Marin Humane and a local resident each brought in birds needing urgent care. Great organization. Must visit for Marin locals. read more

The entire team at Wildcare has won our support and admiration. We have a similar facility in Belize and Wildcare helps us with expert advice. Take a Saturday morning and visit their facility. It will change the way you think about birds. read more