SUSSEX COUNTY, N.J. — The Last Resort Wildlife Refuge has opened a wildlife rehabilitation facility in Sussex County as demand for animal care continues to rise across northern New Jersey.
The organization said the new location, situated on nearly 30 acres, will expand its ability to treat and house injured and orphaned wildlife. Nearly 30% of the refuge’s annual animal intake comes from Sussex County, officials said.
The property includes a 6,500-square-foot heated barn, multiple outbuildings with utilities and a renovated structure that will serve as a hospital. Plans also call for the site to develop into a teaching campus for wildlife care and rehabilitation.
Officials said the facility was made possible largely through the support of a longtime donor.
The new location will operate alongside the refuge’s existing facility in West Milford, which will continue handling local intakes, daily care and pre-release conditioning.
Staffed around the clock by volunteers, veterinarians and licensed wildlife rehabilitators, the organization said it has already taken in hundreds of animals this season, including fox kits, raccoons, coyote pups, bobcats and other species.
The expansion is expected to significantly increase the refuge’s capacity to care for wildlife, though officials said additional support, supplies and equipment will be needed to sustain operations.
The refuge said it plans to work with the local community as it expands its presence in Sussex County. Officials said those interested in supporting the organization can find more information, including donation and supply needs, on its website and online platforms, including at https://a.co/04poER6N.
