Registering to care for injured birds in my state

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I live in Kentucky and I’d like to register to foster sick or injured wild birds in my area. I’m sure I would have to meet specific qualifications and register at least at the state level, but I’m not sure whom I contact to start that process. Any advice?

Thanks

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I’d start with KDFW. They have a list of rehabbers on the website by county. I’d contact the ones in the appropriate county and ask there. They may help you gain experience and education, nor at least let you know what is required for registration.
Welcome to the forum! I hope you have an iNaturalist.org account to share your observations

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You need both a State and a Federal permit, because birds are protected by the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act

Here’s a link to info. for KY
https://fw.ky.gov/Wildlife/Pages/Wildlife-Rehabilitation.aspx

I suggest finding an existing organization in your area, if possible, to volunteer at.
Some organizations have licenses that cover volunteers, although some do not.
I work with birds at a wildlife rehab center as a volunteer (Vermont Institute for Natural Science or “VINS”) But I am not permitted to do rehab at home, so if I find birds that need care, I have to bring them to VINS.

Good luck! It is very rewarding (but sometimes sad)

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