Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator- Castalia, OH
2,500+ second chances every year!
From orphaned babies to critically injured adults, every patient receives individualized care with one goal: a return to the wild.
YOUR IMPACT
Your support makes this possible.
Native wildlife. Specialized care.
From Bald eagles & owls, to turtles, foxes, and songbirds, our team treats some of Ohio's most iconic and vulnerable wildlife.
Thousands inspired.
Through wildlife education, we're helping the next generation understand, respect and protect the wild world around them.
Wildlife Rehabilitation
Rescue, medical care, and release of native wildlife
Our rehabilitation team provides medical treatment, species-specific nutrition, conditioning and recovery care for thousands of native wild animals each year.
Nature Education
Inspiring the community through wildlife programs
Our wildlife ambassadors and educators bring unforgettable experiences to schools, families, and communities throughout northern Ohio.
Our Story
It started with a turtle.
Before Back To The Wild cared for thousands of animals each year, there was a piece of barren farmland, a woman determined to restore it, and a turtle that needed help.
Mona Rutger began planting trees, creating habitat, and caring for injured wildlife. What started as one person's passion grew into the wildlife rehabilitation and education center Back To The Wild is today.
Upcoming Events
Join us for public education programs & opportunities to connect with native wildlife.
WITHOUT YOU, THERE IS NO US FOR THEM!
Every animal we care for relies on people like you. Your support makes rescue, rehabilitation, and release possible.
DONATE
Back To The Wild is a 501(c)(3) non-profit.
Your support provides medical care, food, and shelter for injured & orphaned wildlife.
VOLUNTEER
Get involved and make a direct impact in the care and recovery of native wildlife.
FOLLOW US
Follow along to see the animals your support helps everyday.
OUR ADDRESS
P.O. Box 423
4504 Bardshar Road,
Castalia, Ohio 44824
Telephone: 419-684-9539
For inquiries related to organizational partnerships, media, or board matters, please contact Mona Rutger at mona@backtothewild.org.
For all other questions — including wildlife admissions, volunteering, tours, or donations — please reach out to our staff through phone or emails listed below.
Animal Questions: director@backtothewild.org
Finance: staff@backtothewild.org
Programs: education@backtothewild.org
Volunteers: Volunteers@backtothewild.org
OPERATING HOURS
Tours
For animal admissions:
May - October
8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
November - April
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Years Day, and Easter
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM