Starting in May of 2023, we are excited to announce the beginning of our wildlife apprentice program. Individuals that are looking to become licensed wildlife rehabilitators in North Carolina are required to complete 12-months of supervised training under a licensed rehabilitator. This year we are accepting 10 individuals to join our rehabilitation efforts. Applications can be submitted at any time and will be accepted on a rolling basis during the year provided there is space to accept apprentices. 

What is required?

• Apprentices must be 18 years of age or older as required by NC law. 
• Must have reliable transportation to transport wildlife from select locations.
• Individuals must be willing to care for a minimum of 3 neonatal groups during the year.
  • Neonatal groups will vary in size from 1-4 with multiple animals being preferred for increased success at survival once released.

• ​Apprentices are only allowed to care for squirrels, opossums, or rabbits per NC state law. They must be willing to take any of the above species 
• Individuals must be prepared to potentially purchase formula/food items as needed. We make every effort to help provide items, but at some points it is necessary for apprentices to purchase items.
• Individuals must be prepared for around the clock feedings for some species. 
• Space away from other animals or humans.

What does the apprenticeship provide?

• 24/7 advice and education regarding animal husbandry 
• Handle dealing with public communication, so apprentices do not get contacted by the public directly
• Starter package with all the equipment and materials to get you started
• Outdoor enclosures specifically designed for wildlife once they are ready to graduate to the outdoors (enclosures are not provided at apprentice's homes)
• Temporary housing units suitable to neonatal care
• Assistance ensuring all the proper paperwork is filed
• Expertise in developing excellent husbandry conditions suitable to rehabilitate animals for success once released
• Expertise on state and federal wildlife laws and regulations

additional information- Please Read

• Cost to participate: $150 per year (apprenticeship is a 1 year program)
  • This is non-refundable once paid.
• Once the apprenticeship ends, individuals have the option to continue a partnership with Zoo REC as full wildlife rehabilitators. 
  • Partnership information for full wildlife rehabilitators will be available soon but is not currently available. 
• All animals rehabilitated by Zoo REC or apprentices follows requirements for the state of North Carolina. Any individual found to be ignoring these requirements will be removed from the apprenticeship program immediately.
• Applications will be reviewed and individuals interested in participating will be contacted within 2 weeks of submission.