At Ark Wildlife Shop, we take as much care in crafting our customer experience as we do in selecting our ethical wildlife products. For over 35 years, we’ve been a trusted source for bird feeders, wildlife food, and garden sanctuary essentials. We stand behind the quality of our products and want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. If an item isn’t quite right, our straightforward returns process is here to help.

Our Returns Promise

We believe in ethical practices in all we do. Our returns policy is designed to be fair, transparent, and hassle-free, reflecting our commitment to you and the wildlife we all care for.

1. Returns & Exchanges Overview

  • Return Window: You may return most items within 15 days of receiving your shipment.
  • Condition: Items must be unused, in their original packaging, and in resalable condition.
  • Return Shipping: Customers are responsible for the cost of return shipping unless the return is due to our error or a defective product.
  • Refund Method: Refunds will be issued to the original payment method used for the purchase.
  • Exchanges: We are happy to exchange an item for a different size or product. Please follow the return process and place a new order for the desired item.

2. Step-by-Step Return Process

  1. Initiate Your Return Request: Within 15 days of delivery, please contact our wildlife-loving support team at [email protected] with your order number and details about the item you wish to return or exchange. You can use the template provided below.
  2. Receive Return Authorization & Instructions: We will respond within 2 business days with a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and detailed instructions on where to send your package.
  3. Pack and Ship: Securely pack the item(s) in their original packaging, include the RMA number clearly on the outside of the box, and ship it to the address we provide. We recommend using a trackable shipping service.
  4. Inspection and Processing: Once we receive your return, our team will inspect it (typically within 3-5 business days).
  5. Refund or Exchange Completion: Upon approval, we will process your refund or exchange notification.

3. Return Request Email Template

To make the process smooth, please use the following template when contacting us. Simply copy, paste, and fill in the details.

Subject: Return/Exchange Request – Order #[Your Order Number] Dear Ark Wildlife Shop Team, I would like to request a return/exchange for an item from my recent order. Order Number: [Please insert your order number] Product Name: [e.g., Classic Seed Feeder, Premium Bird Food Bundle] Reason for Return/Exchange: [e.g., Incorrect item received, Changed mind, Product defect] I have read and understand the Returns & Exchanges policy. Please provide the Return Authorization details and shipping address. Thank you for your assistance. Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Email Address]

4. Refund Timeline & Method

  • Processing Time: After we receive and approve your return, please allow 5-10 business days for the refund to be processed.
  • Refund Method: The refund will be issued to your original payment method (Visa, MasterCard, JCB, or PayPal). The time it takes for the refund to appear in your account depends on your bank or payment provider’s policies.
  • Original Shipping Costs: Standard shipping fees are non-refundable. If you received free shipping, the value of the standard shipping fee ($12.95) may be deducted from your refund.

5. Items That Cannot Be Returned

To ensure the health and safety of wildlife and our customers, the following items are non-returnable unless they arrive damaged or defective:

  • Bird Food & Consumables: All opened or used bags of Bird Seed Mixes, Fat Balls for Birds, Badger Food, Duck & Swan Food, and Bird Food Bundles.
  • Health & Hygiene Products: Opened items from the Health & Hygiene category for obvious sanitary reasons.
  • Personalized or Custom Items: Any products that have been customized or made to order.
  • Final Sale Items: Any items marked as “Final Sale” at the time of purchase.

If you receive any of these items in a damaged or defective condition, please contact us immediately at [email protected] with photos, and we will resolve the issue promptly.

6. Damaged, Defective, or Incorrect Items

Your satisfaction is our priority. If your order arrives damaged, is defective, or if you received the wrong item:

  1. Contact us at [email protected] within 7 days of delivery.
  2. Provide your order number and clear photographs of the product and its packaging.
  3. We will arrange a prepaid return label for you or send a replacement immediately at no extra cost.

Need Help? Contact Our Wildlife-Loving Team

We’re here to assist you with the same care we apply to selecting our ethical products.

Email: [email protected]

Address for Returns (By Authorization Only):
Ark Wildlife Shop
2803 Hide A Way Road
San Jose, US 95129

Please do not send returns to this address without first obtaining an RMA number.


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