10-04-2025
New Alabama bill would allow citizens to care for injured wildlife
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT)– A proposed bill in the Alabama House would allow residents to care for injured or orphaned animals, regardless of their experience or qualifications.
In Alabama, the care and rehabilitation of wild animals is limited to those with a permit, issued by the Alabama Department of Conservation. There are currently seven certified rehabbers listed for Alabama, leaving large areas in the state without convenient coverage.
What animals are illegal to own in Alabama?
HB448 would allow 'Good Samaritans' to rehabilitate injured or orphaned wildlife on their own, assuming they will eventually release the animals they have helped. The bill does not allow the keeping of these animals as permanent pets. This includes deer, racoons, and squirrels.
The bill has been sponsored by Representative Harrison. It was assigned to the Agriculture and Forestry Committee, where it waits for a vote.
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