The NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife is informing the public that Raritan Valley Community College is now offering a five (5) day course, the Basic Training Course for Wildlife Rehabilitation, to be held January 9 through 13, 2012, from 9am to 5pm each day.

Wildlife rehabilitation is the process of providing care of orphaned and injured native wild animals with a goal of releasing these animals back to their natural habitats. Most states, including New Jersey, require permits in order to provide wildlife rehabilitation services. Approved by the NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife, this course is part of an alternative route program to meet New Jersey State licensing requirements for wildlife rehabilitators. Successful completion of the course will count for 40 hours toward the 200 hour New Jersey apprenticeship licensing requirement.

The Basic Training Course for Wildlife Rehabilitation focuses on the skill sets necessary to become a successful wildlife rehabilitator. This course offers information and professional training on wildlife rehabilitation provided by some of the most knowledgeable instructors in the field of wildlife rehabilitation. It includes history, licensing requirements and regulations, mammal, bird and reptile species identification and anatomy, proper handling, care and nutrition, medical procedures, and much more.

In addition to persons interested in becoming licensed wildlife rehabilitators, this course will benefit currently licensed rehabilitators wishing to add new species to their permit and anyone who is interested in gaining knowledge about native New Jersey wildlife.