Longtime Wildlife Rehabilitator Faces Eviction from Her Own Operation
Jessica Pisciotta has spent the last 20 years nursing wounded deer, raccoons, owls, and even vultures back to health. But after two decades of service, the city of Tifton has ordered her to shut down Steadfast Wildlife Rescue, citing zoning violations.
On Friday, Pisciotta received a letter from the city’s attorney, giving her just 30 days to cease operations and relocate any remaining animals. The reason? The city says her in-home wildlife rescue violates local ordinances.
“It’s contained. It’s hidden. The animals are here temporarily,” Pisciotta said. “They aren’t kenneled here. They don’t live here. They are only here until they are well enough to go back to the wild.”
Sudden Crackdown Raises Questions
Pisciotta says the timing of the city’s action doesn’t add up. Just weeks ago, Tifton Code Enforcement visited her property to check on building permits. According to her, they knew about the rescue, acknowledged her work, and even thanked her.
Then, seemingly out of nowhere, the city changed its stance.
“The letter I received yesterday… I was in shock,” Pisciotta said. “Every single city official on that letter has contacted me recently. Either they or their direct family members have reached out for a wildlife emergency or situation.”
City Attorney Rob Wilmot insists that while Pisciotta’s work is commendable, it cannot continue in a residential area.
“I don’t think anybody doubts her passion and compassion for these injured animals,” Wilmot said. “It’s just being done in a location where that is not allowed.”
A Vital Resource for South Georgia
Steadfast Wildlife Rescue isn’t just another shelter—it’s a critical part of Georgia’s ecosystem. Pisciotta is one of only four wildlife rehabilitators in the state who holds state, federal, and rabies vector licenses. She’s also the only one serving South Georgia.
“If Pisciotta had not been here, there are no other rehabbers in our area of the state,” said volunteer Renee Bryant.
Bryant pointed to a recent case: a small, injured animal that had been hit by a car. Within days, Pisciotta had it undergoing physical therapy.
- Without her, injured wildlife in Tifton would likely suffer or be euthanized.
- South Georgia has few rehabilitation options for animals.
- The closure could lead to an increase in unlicensed, unregulated rescues.
What Happens Next?
Pisciotta isn’t backing down without a fight. She plans to seek legal counsel to keep her wildlife rescue open. But the clock is ticking.
WALB reached out to Tifton city officials for further comment but has yet to receive a response.
Meanwhile, the fate of countless injured animals remains uncertain. With few alternatives available, shutting down Steadfast Wildlife Rescue could leave Georgia’s wildlife more vulnerable than ever.
