Where Rescue Meets Renewal

This page describes licensed wildlife rehabilitation work performed by a Rhode Island state-licensed wildlife rehabilitator and does not indicate that Boulderwood Sanctuary operates as a public wildlife intake facility.

​

Boulderwood Sanctuary’s wildlife rehabilitation work is conducted by a Rhode Island state-licensed home wildlife rehabilitator specializing in the care and release of injured and orphaned small mammals. Our focus is on giving native wildlife the best possible chance to recover and return safely to their natural environment.

​

Our goal is always rehabilitation and release—helping wild animals heal, regain strength, and thrive in the wild, not remain in human care long term.
 

How Wildlife Rehabilitation Works

Wildlife rehabilitation is governed by strict state regulations and best practices.

• Each animal receives individualized, species-appropriate care

• Veterinary support is provided through an established wildlife veterinary partner

• Care decisions are made on a case-by-case basis under state licensing guidelines

• We are not a public intake facility—please call ahead before bringing any wildlife
   

Species We Care For

We currently provide care for:

• Squirrels (all ages)

• Eastern cottontails (all ages)

• Chipmunks (all ages)

• Virginia opossums (joeys)

• Small rodents (mice, rats, voles, etc.)
   

Please note:

• We do not accept rabies vector species (RVS), adult large mammals, raptors, songbirds, or reptiles at this time

• Species eligibility may change in the future based on licensing and capacity
   

Wildlife care at this facility is focused primarily on small mammals, especially neonatal squirrels, in accordance with Rhode Island state regulations for licensed home rehabilitation.
 

Found an Injured or Orphaned Wild Animal?

If you find a wild animal that appears injured or orphaned:

• Do not attempt to feed or care for it yourself

• Improper handling can harm the animal and may be illegal in Rhode Island

• Wear gloves and gently contain the animal in a breathable box or container

• Keep it warm, dark, and quiet away from pets and people

• Call ahead before bringing the animal so we can advise on next steps
   

Emergency Wildlife Care

For injured adult wildlife or animals requiring immediate veterinary attention, you may also contact the Wildlife Clinic of Rhode Island at 401-294-6363, part of the state’s licensed wildlife rehabilitation network.