Wildlife Rehabilitation Program

The goal of the Texas State Aquarium's Wildlife Rehabilitation Program is to rehabilitate and, whenever possible, return the animals to their natural environment. The Aquarium's Wildlife Rehabilitation Program is federally permitted and operates under rigorous standards established by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

The Texas State Aquarium Wildlife Rehabilitation Program is able to care for:

Unfortunately, the Aquarium does not have the resources to pick up injured or sick shorebirds or raptors. The public must contact the Bird Department at (361) 881-1210 during operating hours before bringing a bird to the Aquarium. We regret that we are unable to admit other types of birds.

The Texas State Aquarium has helped many stranded dolphins as well as sea turtles after they are injured in the wild. When a dolphin or sea turtle is found injured on the beach, it is brought to the Aquarium's Sea Lab facility for acute medical care. Once the animal is healthy and deemed releasable, the Aquarium returns the dolphin or sea turtle to the wild. In the event the animal is not releasable, the Aquarium works to find a proper long-term facility for placement.

All of the sea turtles in Tortuga Cay were injured in the wild, rehabilitated at the Aquarium and deemed non-releasable. They now have a home here, where they are animal ambassadors for their wild brethren.

Each year, thousands of protected, threatened, or endangered species along the Texas coast become ill or injured. Some have been impaired by predators, diseases, or other natural causes. Most are brought to our facility with problems caused directly or indirectly by humans. This includes entanglement in fishing line, nets, or lures, and even illegal harassment and shootings.

Pending the condition of the animal when it is brought in, Aquarium staff stabilizes the animal, evaluates its condition, and provides comprehensive medical treatment. Services range from simply providing a safe, temporary refuge for an exhausted migratory shorebird to acute medical care for an ill dolphin.

If you would like to make a donation to the Texas State Aquarium Wildlife Rehabilitation Program, please go to the support page on our website, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 361.881.1324 for information.

Volunteer by clicking here >

Other animal care and rescue resources:

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ARK - 361.749.6793; 750 Channel View, Port Aransas, TX
Takes all species of birds

Jeannine Adamson-361.576.3339; Victoria, TX
Takes all species of birds and baby birds

Gulf Coast Wildlife Rescue- 979.245.4392; Bay City, TX
Takes all species of birds

Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation- 210.698.1709; Kendalia, TX (by San Antonio)
Takes all birds, babies and other animals