Sierra Wildlife Rescue

Originally a division of Sacramento Wildlife Care in 1990, Sierra Wildlife Rescue (SWR) was formally established in 1992 as the need for wildlife rescue grew in El Dorado County. Led by a group of 85 dedicated wildlife rehabilitators, veterinarians, and supporters, SWR helped 350 wild animals throughout El Dorado, Sacramento, and Yolo Counties during its inaugural year.

Orphaned songbirds accounted for nearly 50% of these wildlife rescues, so in 1996, SWR opened its first "Baby Bird Nursery." Teams of volunteers worked 12-hour days, 7 days per week to feed and care for these orphaned birds. By 2000, SWR had outgrown the Nursery and moved to a larger location. In 2017, SWR got a permanent "home" of its own when the El Dorado County Humane Society generously gifted its building in Diamond Springs to SWR. Today's Nursery treats approximately 750 baby songbirds each season (~April-August) and serves as SWR's Center for education and training classes.

Beyond orphaned songbirds, all other avian species as well as mammals are cared for by in-home rehabilitators. Wildlife we rehabilitate includes squirrels, rabbits, fawns, skunks, opossums, foxes, coyotes, bobcats, raccoons, doves & pigeons, corvids (e.g., crows, ravens), songbirds, waterfowl, game-birds, and raptors (e.g., owls, hawks).

As SWR has grown, so too has its positive reputation! Recognized and highly respected by other wildlife organizations, the United States Department of Fish & Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish & Wildlife, SWR has become a model of organizational skill and efficiency. As such, SWR is often asked to assist other wildlife organizations throughout Northern California.