Appalachian Wildlife Refuge

Appalachian Wildlife Refuge coordinates wildlife rehabilitation efforts in North Carolina by providing quality care to injured and orphaned wildlife, supporting the wildlife rehabilitation network through our ability to help all native species, and offering education to the community regarding wildlife conservation and coexistence.

Licensed by the NCWRC and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, we care for all native NC species including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, restricted species, and rabies vector species. We are 1 of only 2 facilities in NC authorized to rehabilitate our keystone species American Black Bear cubs. We operate as an emergency room and rehabilitation center ensuring that patients receive quality care from rescue to triumphant release.

Our outreach engages the community through events, partnerships, and education. We raise awareness about human-wildlife interactions, coexistence, and how to help wildlife in need with publications, interviews, our emergency hotline, social media, and news reports. We gained national and international recognition on The Today Show and as a winner of the Land Rover Defender Service Awards. These accomplishments along with our high patient success rates reflect our expertise, dedication, and professional approach.

Since opening in 2018, we have helped over 9,000 wildlife. Shrinking habitats lead to more frequent human-wildlife interactions, so as human development increasingly encroaches on natural habitats, the demand continually rises.

Testimonials

"The creatures at Appalachian Wildlife Refuge (featured on The Today Show) receive rehab care extraordinaire! Whether they are orphaned or injured, they get the treatment, nutrition & time needed to restore them to their environment. Whether they crawl, climb, fly, slither, hop or run, they are all cared for lovingly by staff & volunteers. Any investment in AWR supports a more wonderful wild environment for all." - Glen Rainsley