As fall arrives in central Ohio, wildlife is on the move. Animals are busy foraging, migrating, and preparing for winter, making encounters with squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, skunks, chipmunks, woodchucks, and a variety of birds a common sight. Along with this seasonal activity comes a rise in injuries to wildlife, often caused by human interactions and other man-made dangers.

If you come across an injured animal, the Ohio Wildlife Center has all the information you need on how to proceed. Should you capture and transport it? How? Should you call for help? Feed it? Stay far away? Answers to every possible question can be found on the organization’s website at ohiowildlifecenter.org. 

Located in Powell, the Ohio Wildlife Center has cared for injured, orphaned and otherwise distressed native wildlife since 1984. It is the largest wildlife rehabilitation center in the state. The nonprofit organization operates an animal hospital that is permitted to treat just about any creature you might encounter in the wilds and woodlands of the Buckeye State. 

Over 8,500 animals are admitted to the center for medical care and rehabilitation each year. In 2024, about 35 percent of the admitted animals were birds, 63 percent were mammals, and the remainder were reptiles and amphibians. Animal patients came from over 60 different counties around the state. 

Most treated animals are released back into the wild, but the organization is also home to dozens of non-releasable animal ambassadors. The permanently housed animals are used for education and outreach. Ohio Wildlife Center is not a state-supported entity, so the 501(c)3 organization relies on fundraising and donations to keep its doors open. The programming schedule keeps the animal ambassadors busy.

Regularly scheduled events include Wild Story Time (first Wednesday of the month) and Second Sunday. In June, the organization hosted Charcuterie for the Critters, where volunteers helped prepare suitable snacks for animals in the pre-release facility. 

The Enrichment Extravaganza in August enlisted the help of guests in creating enrichment activities for the animals. Reservations are suggested for many events. The Ohio Wildlife Center also requests a modest fee or donation for some programs.

Tours and educational programs help offset operating costs and raise awareness for the organization’s mission. Summer day camps are available for kids from preschool through high school age. Young readers will enjoy Ribbit! Magazine, which is published quarterly. For a unique birthday party experience or other gathering, rent the climate-controlled Bonner Barn, which can accommodate up to 75 guests. 

A wide range of volunteer opportunities is available for adults at least 18 years of age. Tasks for volunteers include directly assisting with animal care for a real hands-on experience. Other volunteer roles include administrative help, public education, event support and more. 

Urban and suburban wildlife continues to thrive despite the continuous encroachment of human development. Nature’s creatures are active all around us, so our paths cross frequently. We can be good neighbors by seeking care for injured animals or abandoned young. The Ohio Wildlife Center is nearby and ready to spring into action for local fauna in distress. Like the wildlife it serves, the organization is a treasure to cherish.