Which factor is essential in the release of rehabilitated wildlife?

The essential factor in the release of rehabilitated wildlife is the evaluation of the animal's physical readiness and behavior. This process involves assessing whether the animal has fully recovered from its injuries or illness and whether it has regained the necessary skills to survive in the wild, such as foraging, avoiding predators, and navigating its environment.

Physical readiness may include checking for healed injuries, weight gain, and overall health, while behavioral assessment ensures that the animal exhibits natural instincts and behaviors that enhance its chances of survival post-release. Ensuring that these criteria are met minimizes the risk of the animal struggling to adapt to its environment or failing to thrive, which is crucial for successful wildlife rehabilitation.

The other factors, while relevant, do not directly address the animal's fitness for survival following its rehabilitation. Municipal approval, sanctuary rehabilitation, and volunteer monitoring have their roles, but they do not replace the fundamental need for the animal to be physically and behaviorally prepared for life in the wild.