Cat Wilds Wildlife Rehabilitation
Hello! I'm Storm!
Name: Storm 🦝
Resident Education Ambassador
Species: Raccoon (Procyon lotor)
Status: Non-Releasable
Permit: Florida Class III Captive Wildlife Permit
Organization: Cat Wilds Wildlife Rehabilitation (formally Catherine Wysoczanski, Wildlife Rehabilitation)
Storm's Story
Storm came into care as a young raccoon alongside his sister, when they were approximately 12 weeks old. Both babies showed the same concerning signs — they were unable to climb and moved by scooting rather than walking, indicating significant neurological or physical impairment.
Despite supportive care, Storm’s sister sadly experienced failure to thrive and passed on her own. Her condition confirmed the seriousness of the disabilities both babies were facing.
Storm survived, but his limitations proved to be permanent.
Why Storm Can't Be Released
Storm has lifelong disabilities that make survival in the wild impossible, including:
Partial blindnessInability to walk or climb
Reliance on scooting to move through his environment
Because of these permanent impairments, Storm cannot forage, escape predators, or navigate safely in the wild. Under Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) guidelines, release would not be humane or legal.Storm was therefore approved to remain in human care under a Florida Class III Captive Wildlife Permit and now resides permanently at Cat Wilds Wildlife Rehabilitation.
Not a Pet — An Education Ambassador
Raccoons are wild animals, not pets. In Florida, it is illegal to keep raccoons without the proper state permits. Storm remains in care only due to special circumstances and with state approval, following professional evaluation by licensed wildlife rehabilitators.
Storm is proudly Cat Wilds Wildlife Rehabilitation’s first Education Ambassador, helping educate the public about:
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Why wild animals should never be kept as pets.
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How injury, illness, or human interference can permanently affect wildlife.
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The vital role licensed wildlife rehabilitators play in conservation and public safety.
Education ambassadors exist to teach respect for wildlife, not to normalize possession. Storm’s role is to help prevent future harm by turning experience into education.