California Fish and Game Code requires a CDFW permit to possess or rehabilitate native wildlife. San Jose residents who find injured animals should call the Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley, the area's permitted rehabilitator, rather than attempting home care. Possessing wildlife without a permit is a misdemeanor.
Under California Code of Regulations Title 14 section 679, only individuals and organizations holding a CDFW Wildlife Rehabilitation Memorandum of Understanding may legally possess and treat injured native wildlife. The Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley, located near San Jose, serves as the primary permitted rehabber for Santa Clara County and accepts hundreds of patients each year. Residents who find injured birds, mammals, or reptiles should contain the animal in a covered box, keep it warm and quiet, and contact the center or San Jose Animal Care and Services. Threatened, endangered, or migratory species require additional federal permits from US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Keeping native wildlife without a CDFW permit is a misdemeanor under Fish and Game Code, with fines per animal, possible jail, and confiscation. Federal violations involving migratory or endangered species add Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Endangered Species Act penalties.
San Jose, CA
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