Ask Maria!
Maria Rush is the Rehabilitation Supervisor at the Outer Banks Wildlife Shelter. She has been with the shelter working with wildlife since 1988 and prior to coming to OWLS she worked as Veterinary Assistant. Her training includes birds, reptiles, mammals and she also has specialized training including oil spill rescue.

Questions regarding care of wildlife can be emailed to Ask Maria
Subject line: Ask Maria!
Questions submitted may be posted on our website.

July 17, 2006
Why am I now seeing mammals during the day that are usually out at night...is this a sign of rabies?
This is baby season, so oppossums, raccoons and fox are all raising litters of young. With the additional mouths to feed, they will have to venture out more to bring home food. Nursing females will require more nutrition at this time as well. Once those babies are weaned and moving around on their own, the adults will not have to venture out as much.

This is not a sign of rabies, however it is important to remember that animals don't always show signs when they are carrying the rabies virus. Do not approach any wild mammals or try to lure them with food. There is enough food in the wild for them without supplementing.  If you are concerned with them visiting your house, remove any attractions that you may have. Keep all pet food put away and stored where they can't get it. Keep trash cans covered with raccoon proof lids.

Observe the visitors from inside your home and enjoy this little window on nature for the few weeks that you have it!

Do you sell or adopt out any of your animals?
No.

No wildlife rehabilitator sells or adopts out wildlife. In fact we are required to maintain rehabilitation, education and collection permits through the state of North Carolina (mammals) and the Federal Government (birds and certain protected species). All North Carolina wildlife is protected by state and some by federal laws.

Personal collection of wildlife is illegal. For example it is not only illegal to keep a bird of prey without a proper permit, but is it illegal to possess feathers or any other parts without the proper collections permit. Violatators are subject to punishment by strict fines and in some cases jail time.

This is important to note when you find injured wildlife and try to rehabilitate it yourself. In most cases the law requires you transfer that animal to a licensed rehabilitator within 48 hours.