WILDLIFE IN NEED   07734 047357
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Hello. We Are Wildlife In Need

Rescuing sick and injured wildlife in Dorset

With over 30 years of experience in aiding birds and british wildlife, our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and care for all wildlife, with the aim of releasing them back into the wild whenever possible.

Currently, we provide a safe haven for over 200 birds, along with other wildlife such as foxes, rabbits, and rodents.

A Safe Haven For Wildlife

Rescuing sick and injured wildlife in Dorset

We cater to all bird species, including majestic raptors, intelligent corvids, nocturnal owls, charming garden birds, and both large and small wetland species.

Additionally, we provide essential support to the diverse coastal and migratory birds that frequent the beautiful Poole and Christchurch harbours.

Expert Care For Injured Wildlife

Rescuing sick and injured wildlife in Dorset

Our rescue centre is entirely run and led by volunteers who offer expert care for injured wildlife, provide telephone advice, and operate a collection service.

Our rescue centre is located in a serene paddock within secluded woodland just south of the New Forest.

We are currently in the process of redesigning our entire website, so many of the functions and features may not work as expected.

Please call us on 07734 047 357 should you need to get in touch

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Our new website is designed to work best on mobile devices like phones and tablets.

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Found an injured bird or animal?

We are always on hand to help, select the type of wildlife you need to rescue, and we will do the rest.

Your Donations Keep Us Going

Consider making a small donation today to support our vital work and help cover our running costs. Your generosity makes a huge difference.

Donate Today
Recent Rescues

Explore the detailed accounts and inspiring stories behind our most recent wildlife rescues by visiting our blog, where we share the challenges and triumphs of our dedicated rescue efforts.

Rescue, Rehab and Release

At the heart of our mission is the commitment to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured and sick wildlife.

Our dedicated team works tirelessly to provide the necessary care and treatment for each animal, with the ultimate goal of returning them to their natural habitat.

Every rescue operation is handled with utmost compassion, ensuring the well-being of the wildlife we aid. Through comprehensive rehabilitation programs, we nurture these animals back to health, preparing them for a successful release back into the wild.

Our efforts not only save lives but also contribute to the conservation and sustainability of local ecosystems.

Come And Join Us

We depend on the dedication of our wonderful team of volunteers. If you are passionate about wildlife and can commit to helping us regularly, we would love to hear from you.

While we ideally ask for a regular weekly commitment, we understand the need for flexibility due to other responsibilities. Join us and make a difference in the lives of our rescued wildlife.

Find Out More
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Aviary Build Appeal

Support our mission to construct 10 new aviaries at the Sanctuary in 2024.

We aim to raise £11,000 to build durable, easy-to-maintain rehabilitation and soft release enclosures that will accommodate over 300 birds. The soft release area will also free up much-needed space for new arrivals in intensive care.

Here's how you can really help:

We use our GoFundMe account to fund special projects, such as covering veterinary bills and constructing new aviaries, which require ongoing protection from the elements and vermin, along with regular maintenance.

We also need significant funds for essential supplies like straw for bedding and specialised live food, such as mealworms for songbirds and fish for gulls. Your contribution will directly impact our ability to care for and rehabilitate these birds.

Donate Using Gofundme
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Adventures of a volunteer driver

Adventures of a Volunteer Driver

I responded to an invitation on the Facebook page and signed up as a driver with Wildlife in Need. When asked if I would catch wildlife, I said yes and bought a big net.

I volunteered for a few hours every Monday morning, anticipating a backlog after the weekend. It was May, and I quickly realised it was peak season for baby birds. My first rescue was nine fluffy chicks who had lost their mother. Despite searching, we couldn't find her.

Next, I rescued a two-day-old cygnet, handed in by a member of the public after being attacked by an adult male swan. Named Pipi by the emergency vet, I took him to the Swannery at Abbotsbury for a peaceful upbringing.

A few days later, I freed a swift that had become tangled in netting. Thankfully, it was unhurt, and I released it back to its nest in Kings Park, Bournemouth.

As summer progressed, I became adept at catching seagulls and pigeons with my large net, enjoying the company of the lovely people I met.

I’ve climbed out of windows, scaled stepladders, and searched warehouses. My proudest moment was rescuing an anxious seagull from a Wendy House in a nursery school playground, under the watchful eyes of 20 admiring four-year-olds.

Maggie
Swan in a seatbelt

Swan in a Seatbelt

I began volunteering by driving injured and sick animals to Lynne, our Founder, during my furlough after the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially, I was just a driver, but as time went on, I felt a growing desire to be more involved. I approached Lynne, eager to learn, and she was more than happy to teach me the ropes. This opportunity has turned out to be the most rewarding experience of my life. Volunteering with wildlife isn't always easy or glamorous. One memorable rescue involved a swan that had crash-landed in a farmer's field. With no other options, I had to quickly remove my top and use it to safely catch the swan. On another occasion, a fellow volunteer and I found ourselves wading neck-deep in the chilly waters of the River Stour, determined to rescue a stranded animal.

Despite the occasional challenges, there have been countless moments of joy and satisfaction. Many of the rescues are straightforward, like collecting injured pigeons or helping lost ducklings find their way, but each one brings its own sense of accomplishment. I’ve met so many incredible people along the way, all dedicated to the same cause of helping wildlife in need.

There are so many stories I could share, each one adding to the rich tapestry of experiences I've gained. Volunteering in this way has not only deepened my appreciation for wildlife but has also connected me with a community of like-minded, passionate individuals.

Kathie
Building our team of DIY volunteers

Building Our Team of DIY Volunteers

I first encountered the incredible volunteers at Wildlife in Need when I brought in an injured baby blackbird. During that visit, I met Lynne, the founder, and it was the first time I had the opportunity to hold and feed a baby bird. The experience was profoundly moving—I was instantly hooked.

Shortly after, I learned that Wildlife in Need was looking for help with building a shed and sourcing materials for their growing operations. My partner and I didn’t hesitate to volunteer for the DIY team. We both enjoy lending a hand whenever we can, whether it’s assembling structures or fixing up the facilities. The work is hands-on and sometimes challenging, but every moment is filled with a deep sense of purpose. Over time, I’ve also had the privilege of caring for several baby birds at home, nurturing them until they were strong enough to be released. Each successful recovery is incredibly rewarding and reinforces my commitment to this cause.

The sense of camaraderie among the volunteers is truly special. I feel privileged to be part of such a dedicated and compassionate team. The love and care that each volunteer pours into their work, especially under the demanding conditions they often face, is nothing short of miraculous. Lynne and the team are true miracle workers, managing to do so much with limited resources but an abundance of heart. It’s this shared passion for wildlife that makes every volunteer effort so meaningful.

Rebecca
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