Squirrel Friends Wildlife Rescue

North Carolina is home to a wide range of native bird species, commonly grouped into songbirds, waterfowl, and raptors.

• Songbirds like cardinals, blue jays, and finches are small perching birds known for their vocalizations.
• Waterfowl, including ducks, geese, and herons, are found near lakes, rivers, and wetlands.
• Raptors such as hawks, owls, and eagles are birds of prey known for their strength and sharp vision.

Because native birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, most species require a federal rehabilitation permit in addition to a North Carolina state permit. Some of our Squirrel Friends Network rehabilitators do hold this federal permit and are authorized to care for these birds.

Here is a wonderful resource on What To Do If You Find a Baby Bird from the Wildlife Center of Virginia.

Visit our Locate page to find a properly permitted wildlife rehabilitator near you.