Wild & Free Wildlife Program

Wild and Free is a nonprofit wildlife rehabilitation organization based out of Garrison, MN. Animals from all over Minnesota are brought here for veterinary services and rehabilitation. Our mission is to rehab and return as many animals as we can back to their natural habitat.

In 2022 we received 941 animals.  These animals range from baby mice, to raccoons, fox, bobcats, a myriad of raptors and black bears.  Some of the notable animals that we have had this season include an otter, a beaver, a coyote, and a nighthawk. We also transferred two unreleasable raccoons to the MN Zoo and one unreleasable merlin to Open Door Bird Sanctuary in Wisconsin. 

We are fortunate to partner with the veterinarians from the Garrison Animal Hospital who donate all their time and talents to us.  Last year, they donated over 2,400 hours and $179,000+ in services.

We are a volunteer based organization.  To date, our volunteers have donated over 3,000 hours this year.  We are so grateful for these wonderful people who care so much for our animals.  During the baby season (May - August), you will see our volunteers working tirelessly to come in three times a day, seven days a week to feed the hundreds of babies we receive and then work to keep the pens, cages and facility clean.  It truly takes a village!

Thank you to our members, donors and sponsors who continue to keep us financially stable. And thank you to the community of people who care for our wildlife and environment. We could not do this work without your support!

Thank you to everyone who donated to our new 1.25 acre bear pen. The pen was completed in September 2022, making it just over a year old. It has been a wonderful investment, and provides ample room for our bear cubs to roam and play.