The end of another year is upon us and I would like to share some of the happy and sad moments we have had at WILDSIDE this year. We have admitted 900 animals so far (as of 12/14/14), which is an increase from 2013. It is because of your continued generosity that we are able to help so many animals. We spend thousands of dollars each year on caging, food, supplies and medical care, and without your support we would not be able to save so many animals.
This endangered Short-eared Owl was successfully released (see right) after spending time at WILDSIDE, with good food and exercise.
This Turkey Vulture spent the winter with us, was unable to fly, so it was placed in an educational setting so that many people can learn about Turkey Vultures, their natural history and behaviors.
Baby Barred Owls, join an adult in perching inside before being moved to a flight cage. Both young owls were released in Ionia, MI where one of them was found.
This Red-necked Grebe came to us after being found on a road. Many grebes and loons think that shiny pavement is water and land on it. They are unable to walk well on land and spend most of their lives on water, needing water to take off. This grebe was transferred to Carolyn Tropp’s rehab facility, then was released.
Bald Eagles have recovered their numbers and are no longer endangered. This eagle was found in Williamston. Unfortunately, she had ingested lead and did not live to be released. Lead shot, once in the stomach, causes lead poisoning and the bird usually dies unless it is caught quickly.
We lost 2 very special animals this year, Paddle, our educational North American beaver and Rascal, our education Virginia Opossum. We miss them dearly, but we know while they were with us, they touched many hearts and taught many people about their species.
