Written by Tri-County Wildlife Center (TCWC) is a wildlife rehabilitation center. We take in almost any wildlife, except big game wildlife. Our busy season is from about May to August. Most of our animals are songbirds, skunks, opossums, raccoons, and birds of prey. Our basic function is to rehabilitate the injured and raise the young until they are able to be released back into the wild. Meaning, they need to be able to catch/find their own food. They also need to be able to escape predators, whether it be flying, climbing, swimming running or slithering.
During the slow months we get a few injured animals. But we take this time to repair and build new enclosures to prepare of the next season. This weekend, we had a yard sale to raise funds for our next season and I was able to assist my partner with some repairs for an outside bird enclosure.
I had also brought in a patient, a Northern Flicker. I had found him motionless on the road. He didn’t even move when I drove by. Most likely he flew into a car and was stunned. Recovery for this type of injury can be anywhere from a few hours to months, depending on how extensive the injuries are. Some animals are not viable after a car collision and have to be euthanized. My little guy was lucky. I was able to release him the same day. We gave him some fluids and pain medication as a precaution. Within a few hours he was eating from the buffet of seeds, mealworms and suet we had given him. Once we saw his energy level up, we flight tested him in an enclosure to ensure he could fly. He flew and I was able to release him. We always attempt to release wildlife in the same area where it was found.
There is no better feeling than releasing an animal and knowing you made a difference.
That was such a great act of kindness to the bird. They may have not lived if you didn’t help them. Thanks for caring for all living beings no matter what their size is.
That’s so cool! I want to come by and visit with my family.