Who would have guessed that a shoebox containing five little Cottontail rabbits would pave the way for who we are today; The Delaware Council of Wildlife Rehabilitators and Educators (DCWRE). The week-old bunnies came through the door of my family’s feed store in 1988 and were successfully released back into the wild that summer. Word spread quickly and the family farm became a sanctuary for injured and orphaned wildlife. The years rolled by and the animals needing help increased. Volunteers helped clean cages and feed animals, partnerships were formed, and local veterinarians helped treat injured animals. It then occurred to me that we needed to start sharing a different kind of knowledge with the public; help us help wildlife and stay safe while doing so.  Education then became a part of our Mission.

From Backyard Rescues to Modern Wildlife Center

In those early days, wildlife rehabilitation was a localized effort. Kind-hearted individuals throughout the state did their best to raise orphaned animals and heal the injured using basic tools and trial-and-error methods in their own backyards. 

At the close of 2025 thirteen DCWRE members accepted and cared for nearly 1,000 orphaned and injured animals. In addition, we received 3,000 phone calls from the public needing help with wildlife. Multiple training courses were facilitated, reaching an additional 7,500 people.                                                                     

The field has undergone a massive transformation, and we are at a pivotal moment to establish a state-wide rehabilitation and education center for wildlife.

Rising Challenges in Our Ecosystem

The demand for our service is growing rapidly. Urban expansion, habitat destruction, and climate shifts have led to an unprecedented rise in human-wildlife conflicts.

• Habitat Loss: Animals are forced into urban areas, leading to more vehicle strikes and window collisions.
• Orphaned Wildlife: Spring brings a massive influx of thousands of helpless, displaced babies requiring round-the-clock feeding.
• Environmental Hazards: Discarded fishing lines, plastics, and domestic pet attacks cause severe, life-threatening injuries daily.

Together, We Can Help Wildlife

Our mission has always been simple: to provide temporary care for injured and/or orphaned native wildlife species and conduct education on wildlife conservation management practices within the State of Delaware. We have come a long way from the days of backyard rescues, but the survival of our local wildlife now rests in your hands. Your gift today is the bridge between a devastating injury and a triumphant release back into the wild. Please join us in this endeavor and donate today.

Thank you for your enduring compassion and dedication to protecting wildlife.

Dawn Webb Cox

Co-Founder

Delaware Council of Wildlife Rehabilitators and Educators