The following classes of wildlife rehabilitation permits may be issued by the department:
(1) An apprentice wildlife rehabilitation permit may be issued to a person serving a one-year internship with and being sponsored by a person possessing a master wildlife rehabilitation permit, or to a person serving a two-year internship with and being sponsored by a person possessing a general wildlife rehabilitation permit. This permit may be issued for a period of up to two years.
(2) A general wildlife rehabilitation permit may be issued to a person who has served the appropriate apprenticeship; has graduated with a degree in veterinary medicine; or has previously held a rehabilitation permit issued by the Iowa department of natural resources, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, or any other state natural resource agency. A general wildlife rehabilitator may sponsor up to four apprentices.
This permit may be issued for a period of up to three years.
(3) A master wildlife rehabilitation permit may be issued to a person who has completed five consecutive years of extensive rehabilitation work and has received a recommendation from the local state conservation officer, or who is a licensed veterinarian with specific training and experience in wildlife rehabilitation. The department of natural resources may issue a master wildlife rehabilitation permit to individuals who have demonstrated special ability, knowledge, training and experience in wildlife rehabilitation. A master wildlife rehabilitator may sponsor up to six apprentices.
This permit may be issued for a period of up to three years.
Iowa Admin. Code r. 571-111.5