Release site providers play a vital role by giving wildlife a second chance back in the wild. Wildlife must be released on private property with the owner’s permission. At release time, wildlife are used to the environment, have the skills to survive in the wild, and are naturally fearful of humans.
Small mammals, mostly squirrels, are released in quiet suburban or rural areas, with hardwood or pine trees, native squirrels in the area, and a deciduous tree in your backyard (without existing squirrel nests) where you can place the squirrel’s nesting box. Releases usually occur in June and September. RVWS provides ongoing support, as well as the nesting box. Volunteers provide solid foods (e.g., rodent block, seeds, fruit and vegetables) and water at the base of the tree for a few weeks, then sporadic feedings afterwards, until the squirrels find their own food.
Larger mammals, such as raccoons and skunks, are released on rural acreages far away from homes, with mixed forest and a water source (e.g. pond, creek). These releases usually occur from August to October. Large mammals do not need to be fed.
Requirements
- homeowner or permission of property owner
- willingness to feed wildlife (squirrels) for several weeks after release in the summer or throughout the winter for fall releases
- no handling of wildlife to keep them wild
Time Commitment
For squirrels, the commitment is daily and sporadic feeding about 2-4 weeks for summer releases, and a few months for fall releases. Squirrel releases usually occur in June and September. Larger mammals are usually released from August to October, and do not require feeding.