Only WDFW-permitted rehabilitators may legally hold and treat injured wildlife in Spokane, and possession of native wildlife by unpermitted residents is prohibited under RCW 77.15 and Washington Administrative Code 220-450.
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife issues wildlife rehabilitator permits under WAC 220-450. Spokane-area residents who find injured deer fawns, raccoons, raptors, or songbirds must transfer the animal to a permitted rehabilitator within twenty-four hours rather than attempting home care. Local options include Washington State University's Raptor Club for birds of prey and licensed wildlife rehabilitators in the Inland Northwest network. SMC Chapter 6 reinforces that exotic and native wildlife are not pets, and SCRAPS will refer wildlife calls to WDFW. Permitted rehabilitators must meet caging, veterinary supervision, and recordkeeping standards.
Unlawful possession of native wildlife is a misdemeanor under RCW 77.15.250, with fines, animal seizure, and potential federal charges if migratory birds are involved.
Spokane, WA
Spokane prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife that creates a nuisance or attracts predators under SMC 10.04. Feeding deer, raccoons, and coyotes is speci...
Spokane, WA
Most wild birds in Spokane are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Washington state law RCW 77.15, with WDFW and federal authorities, not ...
See how Spokane's wildlife rescue permits rules stack up against other locations.
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