Someone holding a NYS wildlife rehabilitation license but no federal license can rehabilitate which animal group?

• A. Local reptiles and amphibians
• B. Migratory birds
• C. Marine mammals
• D. Sea turtles

Answer: (A)

Federal permits are required for wildlife groups protected by national laws, so you need federal authorization to rehabilitate those categories even if you hold a state license. Migratory birds fall under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and rehabilitating them requires a federal permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Marine mammals are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act, so any rehab work needs federal approval from NMFS. Sea turtles also receive federal protection (Endangered Species Act and related rules), typically requiring federal authorization as well.

Local reptiles and amphibians, however, are generally governed at the state level. With only a New York state wildlife rehabilitation license, you can rehabilitate native reptiles and amphibians as long as you follow state regulations and ensure the species isn’t federally listed or otherwise tightly controlled. That distinction is why reptiles and amphibians are the correct group for rehab without a federal license.