Utah Admin. Code R657-40-8 - Release of Wildlife

(1) Rehabilitated wildlife shall be released according to the stipulations provided on the rehabilitator's certificate of registration and the following provisions:

(a) The animal to be released must have attained physical and psychological maturity and has attained a full state of health and recovery from injury or illness, except black bear cubs as provided in Subsection (2);

(b) The animal must be released at the appropriate time of year taking into account the animal's seasonal needs for habitat, hibernation, and migration;

(c) The animal must be released in the same geographical area where it was obtained or into suitable habitat to sustain it, specifically an area that provides all life-sustaining needs for the animal including natural food, fresh water, cover, and range; and

(d) The animal may not be released into any area where that species does not occur naturally or where there is an immediate threat to the animal or humans, or domestic animals.

(2) Black bear cubs may be released to a den site during the first winter after birth, provided the bear cubs are healthy and are of sufficient weight to sustain them through hibernation.

Notes

Utah Admin. Code R657-40-8