Who we are
Southeastern Reptile Conservation (SERC) is a Virginia-based nonprofit dedicated to the conservation, rehabilitation, and protection of native reptiles and amphibians. We provide permitted wildlife rehabilitation for injured and displaced native species with the goal of returning them to the wild, while also supporting habitat stewardship, public education, and conservation-focused technology to ensure native species can thrive in their natural ecosystems.
Our rehabbers hold the appropriate Virginia DWR Wildlife Rehabilitation permits to legally care for native species. SERC operates as a federally recognized 501(c)(3) public charity.
What we do
Wildlife Rehabilitation
We provide expert care for injured, orphaned, and displaced native reptiles and amphibians with the goal of returning healthy animals to the wild. All rehabilitation is conducted by licensed Category IV rehabbers and supervised volunteers.
Species Conservation
Several of the species we work with are of greatest conservation concern in Virginia, including the diamondback terrapin. We partner with state agencies and conservation organizations to support population monitoring, habitat protection, and recovery efforts.
Technology & Data
We use data and technology to improve conservation outcomes. This includes open-source monitoring tools, AI-assisted data analysis, and community reporting systems that help us track wildlife health and trends over time.
Community Education
We work to build awareness of native reptile and amphibian species through public education, community partnerships, and outreach to builders, landowners, and the general public on how to coexist with and protect local wildlife.
Meet our ambassadors
Our education ambassadors are animals in our permanent care — unable to survive in the wild for various reasons. They represent the species we work to protect and help us connect communities to native reptiles and amphibians.
Susie
Susie is our oldest ambassador at an estimated 17 to 18 years old. She came to us as a former pet with shell deformities that make her unsuitable for life in the wild. Box turtles have complex needs that are difficult to meet in a home setting, and Susie is a wonderful reminder of why wildlife belongs in the wild. She is the inspiration behind our AI volunteer assistant, Ask Susie.
Peanut
Peanut is under five years old and came to us as a former pet with metabolic bone disease and shell deformities. Having grown up around dogs and cats, he has no instinctive fear of predators, a trait that would make him extremely vulnerable in the wild. Small but full of personality, Peanut is one of our youngest ambassadors.
Natalie
Natalie required amputation of her back leg following an animal attack and was deemed non-releasable due to the mobility challenges that followed. Her age is unknown, but she has settled comfortably into permanent care. Grumpy, chubby, and unapologetically herself, Natalie is a favorite.
Get involved
SERC depends on the support of volunteers, donors, and the community. Whether you want to volunteer your time, report a found animal, or make a donation, we would love to hear from you.