Rehabilitating injured wildlife in Detroit requires a Michigan DNR rehabilitation permit, and additional federal authorization for migratory birds; private possession without a permit is prohibited.
Michigan DNR issues wildlife-rehabilitation permits under the Wildlife Conservation Order; applicants must demonstrate veterinary support, suitable caging, and complete annual reporting. Permitted rehabilitators in Detroit work closely with DACC, which routes calls about injured raccoons, opossums, hawks, and waterfowl to authorized facilities rather than impounding them at the municipal shelter. Migratory bird rehab also requires a federal permit through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Keeping wildlife as pets, including squirrels or fawns, is prohibited even briefly. Citizens encountering injured wildlife should call DACC for referral instead of intervening directly.
Unpermitted wildlife possession is a misdemeanor under MCL §324.40118 with fines up to $1,000 plus state and federal forfeiture and additional MBTA penalties.
Detroit, MI
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Detroit, MI
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See how Detroit's wildlife rescue permits rules stack up against other locations.
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