Business Details
35 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Partner for Wildlife Rescue and Conservation
Gold Country Wildlife Rescue has been dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured and orphaned wildlife since 1991. Permitted by the California Department of Fish & Wildlife and the US Fish & Wildlife Service, we operate 365 days a year, serving Northern California with no charge for our services. Our team handles over 3,700 animals annually, addressing increased demands from wildfires, climate change, and habitat loss. We maintain a 15-acre facility with eight modular units for emergency intake, veterinary care, and rehabilitation. Our strategic growth includes partnerships with the Wildlife Disaster Network and a capital campaign to expand our capabilities.With over 35,000 volunteer hours annually, we combine community support and professional expertise to advance wildlife conservation. Our educational outreach reaches millions online, promoting coexistence with local wildlife. Financially solvent through public donations, we prioritize transparency and ethical practices. Our work includes specialized care for burn victims from wildfires and a permanent permit for bear cub rehabilitation. As Placer Countys population has doubled, our services have scaled to meet rising needs while maintaining our mission to protect ecosystems.
Services
Wildlife Rescue
Animal Rehabilitation
Emergency Intake
Educational Programs
Volunteer Opportunities
Internships
Civic Projects
Donation Programs
Capital Campaign
Wildlife Education
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.
- Our team operates a 15-acre facility dedicated to wildlife care.
- We handle over 3,700 animals annually, including wildfire victims.
- Our educational outreach reaches millions online annually.
- We partner with the Wildlife Disaster Network for emergency response.
Services
Wildlife Rescue
We provide emergency intake and transportation guidance for injured or orphaned wildlife. Our team trains the public on safe handling practices and coordinates with local agencies to ensure timely care. Services include 24-hour emergency phone support and partnerships with animal care providers across California.
Animal Rehabilitation
Our facility offers medical treatment, recovery housing, and release preparation for over 3,700 animals annually. Specialized programs address burn injuries from wildfires and critical care for bear cubs. We maintain strict protocols to minimize human interaction and preserve animals' wild instincts.
Educational Programs
Virtual presentations and outreach materials teach coexistence strategies and ecosystem importance. Our content reaches millions online, with in-person programs available for schools and civic groups. The 2025 education center expansion will enhance interactive learning opportunities for local and global audiences.
Volunteer Opportunities
We engage over 35,000 annual volunteer hours across rescue operations, facility maintenance, and administrative roles. Training programs develop skills in wildlife handling, public education, and disaster response. Volunteers directly contribute to our capacity to serve increasing animal admissions.
Disaster Response
As Wildlife Disaster Network members, we provide emergency care for animals affected by fires and natural disasters. Our protocols include specialized burn treatment and rapid intake systems. Since 2018, we've cared for over 20 wildfire victims including bears, foxes, and coyotes.
Questions
What should I do if I find an injured animal?
Transport the animal directly to our Auburn intake center during operating hours. If closed, keep it warm and quiet, then contact our emergency system at 530-885-0862.
Does GCWR treat all wildlife species?
We care for native California species including birds, mammals, and raptors. Special permits allow us to rehabilitate bear cubs and burn victims from wildfires.
How can I support GCWR's mission?
Donate through our website, participate in volunteer programs, or join educational initiatives. Corporate partnerships and civic project collaborations also help sustain our work.
Are educational tours available?
Public tours are currently unavailable to minimize animal stress. Virtual educational content and future facility expansions will provide new engagement opportunities starting in 2025.
How does GCWR handle wildlife emergencies outside business hours?
Our emergency phone system operates 24/7. Leave a message with details and we'll return calls as soon as possible. For immediate action, follow our wildlife handling guidelines.
Reviews (7)
Greg Tripiano
Jan 02, 2022
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Still waiting to hear if my Hawk pulled through. I do know of the fate of the Hawk that was brought in the following day.
Liz Lopez
Oct 05, 2021
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The people here are really dedicated to helping animals that others wouldn't think twice to help. I took a pigeon there because it was on my steps and didn't seem to be able to fly. They were more than happy to take it in and try to help it. We need more people like that in this world. These people are a blessing that should definitely be recognized for their work. YOU ALL ARE ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!!!!
Carol Lille
Jun 21, 2021
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My husband found a birds nest in the middle of the road. Inside were three healthy baby birds. Brought them to Gold country Wildle rescue.
Maisa Baddawi
May 26, 2021
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Every person that works here is absolutely amazing. A group of compassionate and just wonderful people!!
Patricia Fuenzalida
Oct 26, 2020
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Having wildlife rehabber experience myself I've found this center to be run very professionally. We're glad and grateful they're doing the work of rehabilitating and releasing wildlife in our community.
Christina Preston
Sep 14, 2020
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Absolutely wonderful place. I have taken many animals that I have found from owls to ravens that have been injured to this location. They are a real community asset.
Teresa Montana
Sep 06, 2019
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Very caring employees work here. We had a little hummingbird they took it in right away and were very concerned about its well-being. They handle a lot of different animals if you find one that's wounded I would suggest getting it to them right away!
