Woodlands Wildlife Refuge, Inc.
Woodlands Wildlife Refuge, located in Alexandria Township, New Jersey began in 1986 with the care of two orphaned raccoons. The mission of Woodlands Wildlife Refuge is the care and release of orphaned and injured native wildlife back to their natural habitat. We also provide educational programs about the habits and habitats of our local wildlife.
Woodlands created and implemented New Jersey’s successful black bear rehabilitation and release program. Woodlands also created and implemented New Jersey’s successful state endangered bobcat rehabilitation and release program. Woodlands serves as the primary rehabilitation facility for both of these species.
Woodlands is a New Jersey state licensed wildlife rehabilitation facility and is a 501(C)(3) charitable corporation. Woodlands receives no state or federal funding.
Woodlands Today
Woodlands Wildlife Refuge cares for over 1,700 wild patients annually. As our communities continue to grow, and loss of habitat continues, the number of human/wildlife encounters increase. We are dedicated to keeping up with the needs of our communities and our wild neighbors. Woodlands enjoys a high success rate of release. Woodlands provides care to a multitude of species including but not limited to: raccoons, skunks, opossums, rabbits, woodchucks, foxes, squirrels, coyotes, bats, otters, porcupines, bears, venomous snakes, and even the occasional bobcat.
Woodlands has a highly trained team of staff and volunteers that care for the animals until their release. The doctors and staff at the Animal Hospital of Clinton-Perryville , Voorhees Corner Veterinary Clinic, Oradell Animal Hospital, and West Hunterdon Animal Hospital generously treat animals needing more extensive care such as X-rays, fracture repair or surgery.
Wildlife Rehabilitation
There are few endeavors less glamorous than being a wildlife rehabilitator. The hours are many, the patients can be surly, and the work itself can be messy.
When an animal first arrives, it is thoroughly examined for injuries and disease. Once the condition of the animal is determined, decisions about housing, feeding, and medication are made and the animals are monitored daily. Every effort is made to minimize human imprinting, ensure the animal is healthy and well functioning. All care is geared towards preparing the animal for eventual release and survival in the wild – where they belong.
Woodlands is proud of the thousands of animals it has been able to assist and release back to the wilderness. This is our greatest reward. It is not possible without dedicated volunteers and generous donors.
An Important Note
Woodlands is open by appointment only for scheduled public events, education programs, and animal admissions.
To ensure the best success of the wild animals that are released, Woodlands must minimize interaction with humans as much as possible. We appreciate your understanding and assistance with this effort. Look for our scheduled programs and community events.
