Get up close and personal with wild animals at NIWRA
- Moira Rosser-Peterson
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
~wildlife education~
Since becoming internationally known in January 1989 after rescuing 25 poisoned eagles, the North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA) has evolved into a remarkable wildlife rescue and rehabilitation facility specializing in black bear cubs and birds of prey. NIWRA’s mission is to care for ill, injured, and orphaned wildlife, and to educate the public on wildlife and environmental issues.
Years of dedication and hard work have resulted in thousands of animals being rescued, rehabilitated and released. Here are a few stories of animals that have come to NIWRA for treatment this year:
A Pileated Woodpecker came to NIWRA with his face stuck in a rat trap. He had quite significant facial swelling but with our care, he is healing well.
A young Great Blue Heron was found in a koi pond tangled in fishing line, unable to free itself. Upon examination, we discovered that the Heron had also been shot and the pellet was still lodged in its neck. Fortunately, the lead pellet was successfully removed, and the bird is recovering.
In August, a little beaver kit was found struggling in the fast-moving rapids of the Cowichan River. No mom or lodge in sight. She is now doing well in our care.
A cedar waxwing was brought to us because someone had deliberately clipped its wings, leaving it defenseless and unable to fly. Clipping the wings of a wild bird strips it of its freedom.
Our black bear nursery currently holds five cubs that are gaining weight and doing well. They will be released back into the wild next year.
We invite the public to visit, and here are a few of our non-releasable ambassador animals you can meet when you come:
Rae (Black Bear)
Rae is a female bear who was found starving and unsteady on her feet, likely due to head trauma. She requires ongoing care for the rest of her life.
Casey (Bald Eagle)
Casey, now an adult eagle, was found on the ground with no nest nearby when he was a chick. He has a non-repairable dislocated wing and will live here at the Centre for the rest of his life.
Farley (Great Gray Owl)
Farley was found near 100 Mile House, BC after being hit by a vehicle. The collision resulted in a badly broken wing which had to be partially amputated, so he cannot fly.
You can help the wildlife in care at NIWRA by making a financial contribution on our secure website. Thank you so much for caring about wildlife!
Comments