Rehabilitate
Ill and injured animals receive species-appropriate care, nutrition, habitat and treatment designed to support recovery.
Our Mission
Helping Wisconsin wildlife recover, return and inspire.
Wanakia combines compassionate wildlife rehabilitation with education that helps people better understand and coexist with the animals that share our communities.
Why We Exist
A second chance for injured, ill and orphaned wildlife.
Since 2006, Wanakia Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center has served Washington County, Wisconsin, and neighboring communities by caring for native wildlife that needs help. Animals receive appropriate treatment, nutrition and habitat while they recover or grow toward independence.
Whenever possible, the goal is simple: prepare each recoverable animal to return safely to its natural habitat. For animals whose permanent disabilities prevent release, an appropriate resident may become an educational ambassador and help teach the community about native wildlife.
Our Mission in Action
Care, release and education work together.
Every part of Wanakia's work supports healthier wildlife and a more informed community.
Release
Orphaned and recovering animals are prepared for independence, with successful return to the wild as the primary goal.
Educate
Non-releasable educational ambassadors help schools, scouts and community groups learn about wildlife, ecosystems and responsible coexistence.
From Rescue to Return
Each animal's path is guided by what it needs to thrive.
Wildlife rehabilitation begins with careful assessment and continues through treatment, recovery and release readiness.
Respond
Finders call Wanakia for guidance so the animal's situation can be assessed before transport or admission.
Care
Admitted wildlife receives appropriate examination, treatment, diet and a safe recovery environment.
Prepare
As recovery progresses, animals build the strength, behavior and independence needed for life in the wild.
Return
When an animal is healthy and capable of thriving independently, it is released back into suitable natural habitat.
Education Is Part of the Mission
Wildlife care creates opportunities to teach.
Wanakia's educational ambassadors help connect people with native wildlife in a memorable, responsible way. Education programs can help participants understand animal adaptations, habitat needs, the challenges wildlife faces and practical ways people can reduce conflicts with wild animals.
Explore EducationSupport the Mission
Help give wildlife a second chance.
Donations and volunteer support help provide the care, food, supplies and facilities wildlife rehabilitation requires every day.