Advance Your Expertise in Wildlife Recovery and Conservation
This programme is designed to provide learners with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in caring for injured, orphaned, or displaced wildlife. Participants will explore essential principles of animal welfare, species identification, and habitat assessment, alongside hands-on techniques for safe handling and basic medical care. The course emphasises the importance of ethical practices, emergency response, and environmental stewardship, equipping learners to contribute effectively to wildlife conservation and rehabilitation efforts in both professional and volunteer contexts. It is not Ofqual regulated, but is structured to meet high professional and practical learning standards.
Learners will gain insight into the biological, behavioural, and ecological needs of various wildlife species. Modules cover nutrition, injury management, disease prevention, and the rehabilitation process from rescue to release. The course also highlights the role of rehabilitation in supporting ecosystem health and promoting biodiversity. Participants will learn to assess situations critically, apply safety protocols, and communicate effectively with stakeholders, including veterinarians, conservation teams, and the public. This approach ensures a well-rounded understanding of the responsibilities and challenges in wildlife care and recovery.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Wildlife Rehabilitation provides a structured and professional pathway for individuals aiming to develop applied skills in wildlife rescue and care. The programme focuses on practical competence, ethical awareness, and conservation-focused decision-making. It is suitable for professionals, volunteers, and enthusiasts who wish to enhance their existing certifications or diplomas in animal care, veterinary support, environmental science, or conservation. By completing this course, learners gain valuable expertise that can be applied directly in wildlife rehabilitation centres, rescue operations, and community conservation initiatives.
Program Highlights
Study Units
- Introduction to Wildlife Rehabilitation and Ethical Foundations (3 hours)
- Legal and Regulatory Frameworks in Wildlife Care (3 hours)
- Anatomy and Physiology of Common Wildlife Species (4 hours)
- Initial Assessment, Triage, and Handling Techniques (6 hours)
- Common Injuries, Diseases, and Medical Management (4 hours)
- Nutrition, Hydration, and Feeding Strategies (5 hours)
- Behavioural Assessment and Stress Management in Wild Animals (3 hours)
- Habitat Preparation and Environmental Enrichment (2 hours)
Entry Requirements
TTo ensure learners can effectively engage with the OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Wildlife Rehabilitation, the following entry requirements are recommended:
- Age Requirement: Learners should be at least 18 years old at the time of enrolment to ensure maturity for practical and professional training.
- Educational Background: A basic educational qualification is preferred. Previous completion of related diplomas or certificates in animal care, veterinary assistance, wildlife conservation, zoology, environmental science, or biology can be beneficial but is not mandatory.
- Language Proficiency: Learners should have a good command of English to understand course materials, follow instructions safely, and complete written assessments confidently.
- Work Experience: Previous experience in animal care, wildlife volunteering, rescue work, or conservation projects is advantageous but not required.
Overall, this course is accessible to motivated learners from diverse backgrounds who wish to develop practical skills and professional knowledge in wildlife rehabilitation, rescue, and conservation.
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Wildlife Rehabilitation and Ethical Foundations (3 Hours)
- Understand the fundamental principles of wildlife rehabilitation
- Recognise the ethical responsibilities involved in caring for wild animals
- Identify the roles of rehabilitators within broader conservation efforts
- Develop awareness of humane practices and animal welfare standards
Legal and Regulatory Frameworks in Wildlife Care (3 Hours)
- Understand national and international wildlife protection laws
- Identify permits and legal requirements for rehabilitation practices
- Recognise the importance of record-keeping and reporting in compliance
- Apply legal knowledge to ethical decision-making in rehabilitation scenarios
Anatomy and Physiology of Common Wildlife Species (4 Hours)
- Gain foundational knowledge of the anatomy of birds, mammals, and reptiles
- Understand species-specific physiological functions and how they relate to care
- Recognise normal versus abnormal physical indicators in wildlife
- Apply anatomical understanding to handling and treatment techniques
Initial Assessment, Triage, and Handling Techniques (6 Hours)
- Conduct safe and effective assessments of injured or orphaned wildlife
- Perform triage to prioritise care based on severity and prognosis
- Utilise appropriate capture, restraint, and transportation methods
- Understand biosecurity and hygiene protocols to minimise stress and disease spread
Common Injuries, Diseases, and Medical Management (4 Hours)
- Identify and classify typical injuries and illnesses in wild animals
- Understand basic first aid and wound management principles
- Recognise signs of zoonotic diseases and apply safety measures
- Collaborate effectively with veterinary professionals for advanced care
Nutrition, Hydration, and Feeding Strategies (5 Hours)
- Understand species-specific dietary requirements and feeding schedules
- Prepare appropriate food and hydration plans for different life stages
- Monitor weight, hydration status, and feeding response accurately
- Manage feeding in animals with special needs or recovering from trauma
Behavioural Assessment and Stress Management in Wild Animals (3 Hours)
- Recognise signs of stress and behavioural abnormalities in wildlife
- Understand how captivity affects behaviour and recovery
- Apply stress-reduction strategies in handling and enclosure design
- Promote natural behaviours to support successful rehabilitation
Habitat Preparation and Environmental Enrichment (2 Hours)
- Create safe and species-appropriate rehabilitation enclosures
- Incorporate environmental enrichment to support physical and mental health
- Prepare animals for release through habitat simulation
- Maintain clean, functional, and ethically appropriate facilities
This course is designed for individuals passionate about wildlife care, rehabilitation, and conservation. It is suitable for professionals, volunteers, and enthusiasts who wish to gain practical knowledge and hands-on skills in rescuing, treating, and rehabilitating wild animals safely and ethically.
Wildlife Rehabilitation Professionals
- Animal care specialists working in wildlife rescue centres
- Wildlife rehabilitators aiming to improve practical skills
- Veterinary technicians assisting in wildlife treatment
- Field staff handling injured or orphaned animals
- Professionals managing rescue and rehabilitation facilities
- Staff supporting conservation and animal welfare programmes
Conservation and Environmental Workers
- Conservationists and ecologists monitoring wildlife populations
- Park rangers and forest officers involved in animal protection
- Environmental NGO staff focusing on habitat restoration
- Field researchers working with endangered species
- Professionals implementing biodiversity and sustainability initiatives
- Individuals involved in wildlife monitoring and protection programmes
Animal Care and Veterinary Staff
- Veterinary professionals interested in wildlife medicine
- Animal shelter and rescue centre workers
- Veterinary assistants supporting rehabilitation procedures
- Staff handling nutrition, feeding, and medical care for wild animals
- Professionals monitoring animal health and wellbeing
- Individuals collaborating with veterinarians for advanced care
Volunteers and Community Wildlife Advocates
- Volunteers in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation projects
- Members of community conservation programmes
- Educators and trainers promoting wildlife awareness
- Wildlife enthusiasts looking to contribute safely to animal care
- Individuals providing support in rehabilitation facilities
- Participants interested in hands-on wildlife experience
Students and Academic Learners
- Biology, zoology, or environmental science students
- Learners pursuing careers in wildlife conservation or veterinary care
- Postgraduate students seeking applied knowledge in animal rehabilitation
- Interns preparing for fieldwork or professional roles in animal welfare
- Individuals developing complementary skills to existing diplomas or certifications
- Students aiming to gain practical, career-relevant expertise
Individuals Seeking Professional Growth
- Professionals looking to enhance expertise in wildlife care and rehabilitation
- Learners aiming to gain structured, practical knowledge in conservation
- Those preparing for roles in rescue centres, parks, or environmental organisations
- Individuals seeking ethical and hands-on training in animal welfare
- Participants motivated to contribute to biodiversity protection and wildlife recovery
- Professionals aiming to strengthen applied skills for career or volunteer advancement
Overall, this course is ideal for anyone committed to gaining practical, professional, and ethical expertise in wildlife rehabilitation, enabling learners to contribute effectively to animal care, conservation, and community education.
