Collect as much information as possible (species if known, description, location, nature of injury, photo) and call or text us at 813‑598‑5926. Please do not attempt to keep or care for the animal yourself — they require specialized care from PERMITTED rehabilitators.
Gopher tortoises are keystone species. If injured, you may safely contain and transport them to a PERMITTED rehabber. Call or text us at 813‑598‑5926 for guidance. Do not place tortoises in water — they are terrestrial. You may not move a tortoise simply because it is inconveniently located. For further questions, contact the Florida Wildlife Commission (*FWC).
All birds — raptors, shorebirds, songbirds, doves — are federally protected. Contact a PERMITTED rehabilitation organization immediately. Call or text us at 813‑598‑5926 with details.
Many fledglings naturally leave the nest and are not in danger. Refer to our blog post Baby Bird 9‑1‑1 for guidance. If the bird is clearly injured or orphaned, call us at 813‑598‑5926.
Many bats struggle during inclement weather. These bats need to get to a rehabber for rehydration and care. Refer to our blog post Cold Snaps and Florida Bats for guidance. If the bat is clearly injured or in a dangerous location, call or text us at 813‑598‑5926.
If you want to learn more about wildlife you can go to
Although our facility is not open to the public, you can still see wildlife at:
Yes. Owl’s Nest Sanctuary for Wildlife is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Donations through PayPal or other services generate receipts automatically.
We sell a variety of items at many events, including homemade soaps, V. Steiner stickers and magnets, symbolic adoption kits, and postcards. Please visit us at our events.
Please contact Jessica@owlsnestsanctuaryforwildlife.org
The Florida Wildlife Commission and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services both have a process in place to verify that rehabilitators are knowledgeable, experienced, and capable of caring for wildlife. In order to receive a permit each agency required that applicants prove their expertise through a series of screenings that include proof of hands on supervised experience, a knowledge based exam, veterinarian endorsement, property inspection and more. It is vital for the survival of the animals that they are able to quickly receive the care they need.
Anyone who is responding either as a rehabber or on their behalf is required to carry a copy of their permit. If they are dealing with a mammal or reptile they should be able to show you a copy of their state permit which would include the Florida Wildlife Commission seal on the top left hand corner. If the animal is a bird they would have a copy of a federal permit issued by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services. If they are a rehabber their name will be printed on the permit. If they are a transporter you can always ask the permitted rehabber who they are sending on their behalf. That person will still have a copy of the permit but would also be able to produce a photo ID as well to verify they are the person who should be taking possession.
We are based in Odessa, FL. To keep overhead low and provide round‑the‑clock care, we currently operate out of volunteers’ homes. Our facility is not open to the public, but donations can be mailed to 12932 Royal George Ave, Odessa, FL 33556. We are working toward opening a dedicated facility soon.
No — we are 100% volunteer‑run. If you’d like to join us, please complete the volunteer application.
Owl's Nest Sanctuary for Wildlife has a few wonderful sponsors. These are:
If you would like to become a sponsor please give us a call at (813) 598-5926.
You can always call Florida Wildlife Commission (FWC) to find a licensed rescue / rehabilitation facility in your area. We also have neighboring and cooperating rescues. These are:
No, we focus exclusively on wildlife. For domestic animals, contact your local pet rescue.
Wildlife Drop Off Hours 9a -6p
Facility Not Open to the Public
18707 Rustic Woods Trail,
Odessa, FL 33556
owlsnestsanctuaryforwildlife@gmail.com
