The Center for Wildlife, which opened its doors in 1986, is the only facility in southern Maine dedicated to the rehabilitation of wild animals.  Over 1,600 animals are brought to the center each year from communities throughout Maine and New Hampshire. Most of the animals are suffering from infection, illness or injury.  The causes and types of injury vary widely; perhaps a great blue heron became entangled in fishing lures, a red-tailed hawk was shot or poisoned or a cottontail was injured by a cat. Whatever the illness or injury, the center provides the full range of diagnostic, treatment and recovery activities needed to maximize each animal's chance of returning to the wild.

The Center also provides educational and outreach programs to over 4,000 children and adults throughout the year.  Volunteers are vital to all aspects of the Center's operations, from animal care to fundraising.

About Visiting the CFW
Our center receives many requests from people who would like to visit and view the animals.  We would like nothing more than to be able to welcome the public on an on-going basis.  However, our State and Federal permits for wildlife rehabilitation restrict the number of people visiting our site to preserve the atmosphere of a sanctuary for the animals in our care.  Fortunately, we also maintain an educational permit which allows us to visit local schools, libraries and other organizations with our non-releasable wildlife ambassadors, including several birds of prey, reptiles and mammals (see our Adopt a Wildlife Ambassador program).  The center has ongoing Education and Outreach Programs to help the general public understand the wildlife of the area.  We are in the process of developing an on-site educational program as well.

Directions to the Center

How You Can Help
There are a number of ways you can become involved with the CFW.  We are always in need of volunteers, financial support, building materials and many other items.  For a list of items that are always needed please take a look at our wish list.

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