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North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre is a non-profit facility that cares for ill, injured and orphaned wildlife, and educates the public about wildlife and environmental issues. Visitors can see non-releasable Vancouver Island wildlife in peaceful and rustic surroundings. Hours Holiday Hours OPEN December 24, 9am-Noon (12PM) CLOSED December 25 & 26, (Christmas Day & Boxing Day) OPEN December 27 - 30, 9am - 4:30pm OPEN December 31, 9am-Noon (12PM) CLOSED January 1, (New Years Day) Regular Hours resume January 2 Daily 9am - 4:30pm Admission Adult $15+tax Children 4–16 $6+tax Children 3 & under FREE Veterans and Military FREE Location 1240 Leffler Road, Errington, BC Locate Us on Google Maps Join Our Team Volunteer They Need Us. We Need You! Donate Now Stay Connected Latest on Facebook Photos on Instagram Tripadvisor reviews Watch us on Youtube Get our newsletter Adopt an Animal View Adoption Animals in Shop

HOME > Robin and Sylvia Campbell Scholarship to Benefit Wildlife (2026) The Scholarship: North Island Wildlife Recovery Association will award five $2,000 scholarships in the summer of 2026. Scholarship recipients shall also receive a one-year membership to North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre. Are You Eligible to Apply? Are you currently a full-time student registered in one of the following?: a high school in SD69 graduating in 2026
 post-secondary (undergraduate or college) program
 graduate degree program
 diploma program Are you enrolled in full-time studies that benefit wildlife? Examples include the study of animal care, biology/ecology, coastal/marine studies, earth science/geology, environmental studies/education, natural resource protection, resource management, veterinary medicine OR other studies that directly benefit wildlife. Are you a Canadian citizen who previously lived or currently lives on Vancouver Island? If you answered 'Yes' to all 3 questions, then we welcome your application. How Will Your Application Be Evaluated? Applications will be judged on: the relevance of the post-secondary academic program in which you are enrolled your transcript and the level of excellence demonstrated in relevant subject areas [High school applicants only] your involvement in volunteer and extra-curricular activities that demonstrate their dedication to wildlife and/or the environment. Five Steps to a Successful Application Download Scholarship Application form Download Reference Request form Download and complete the Scholarship Application form . Write a 400-500 word personal statement describing your educational and career goals as you see them now. Include a current resume that details your education, work experience, honours and awards, extracurricular events and/or community activities, and employment. Provide copies of post-secondary transcripts . High school students : Provide proof of acceptance into a post-secondary program. Download and print 2 copies of the Reference Request form . Include two sealed letters of recommendation that address your academic achievement and potential for success in your post-secondary studies. (**Instructions are provided in the Scholarship Application form.) Mail* or hand-deliver your completed application package with the 5 required components to: Joyce Lee, Executive Director North Island Wildlife Recovery Association Box 364, 1240 Leffler Rd., Errington, BC V0R 1V0 wildlife@niwra.org *NOTE: If you choose to send your application via Canada Post, you are encouraged to track your package so you can ensure it arrives by the deadline. Late entries will not be considered.

Robin & Sylvia Campbell Scholarship to Benefit Wildlife 2025 Recipients Announced The Robin & Sylvia Campbell Scholarship to Benefit Wildlife is awarded annually to five university students pursuing careers in wildlife conservation and environmental conservation. These recipients exemplify passion, excellence, and dedication in their studies and future goals. The scholarship is designed to support and recognize emerging leaders who are committed to preserving our planet’s wildlife and natural ecosystems. Meet The 2025 Recipients Meghan MacIsaac Meghan currently works as NIWRA’s summer wildlife garden caretaker and has been a volunteer in NIWRA’s wildlife garden since 2018. She has over a decade of experience within the biotechnology and manufacturing fields. Since moving to the Island from the mainland in 2017, Meghan has set her focus on the environmental field and furthering her education in Environmental Practice, where she is now halfway through working towards her Master’s. Meghan holds a BSc in biology and certified in environmental monitoring from the University of Northern British Columbia. She also volunteers for Save Estuary Land Society and loves to garden and learning about plants! Jayden Emery Wildlife conservation has been a lifelong passion for Jayden, beginning in childhood as she explored the creek behind her home in the Comox Valley and participated in programs like Earth Rangers and Scouts. After moving to Nanoose Bay, her dedication to the environment led her to begin volunteering with the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre in 2019, where she has since grown into the role of a youth mentor in the Green Teen program. She has also brought her environmental values into her current workplace, contributing to sustainability efforts through their programs. Currently, she is employed by RLC Park Services at Englishman River Falls and Little Qualicum Falls, where she conducts park patrols. At the same time, she is studying in the Resource Management Officer Technology diploma program at Vancouver Island University, with plans to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Protection by 2027. As she builds her career in environmental conservation, her focus remains on giving back to the Oceanside community that has supported her along the way. She looks forward to the opportunities the future holds. Laura Kennedy Laura has harbored a deep love for animals since childhood, having grown up surrounded by dogs and cats and frequently watching documentaries about large carnivores such as wolves and lions. Her fascination with wild animals was sparked during a visit to Toronto, where she observed a raccoon family on a rooftop—an experience that left a lasting impression. This passion for nature led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Geography at the University of Calgary. Driven by a desire to support local wildlife, she later enrolled in a Master’s program at Royal Roads University, where she is currently conducting a post-release monitoring study of rehabilitation-reared raccoons. Her research focuses on collecting preliminary data regarding the survival, movement patterns, and causes of mortality among orphaned raccoons. The goal is to inform best practices that improve the survival rates of juveniles released back into the wild. As urbanization, habitat loss, and climate change continue to increase the frequency and complexity of human-wildlife interactions, the field of wildlife rehabilitation is gaining importance. Grounded in the welfare of individual animals—caring for the sick, orphaned, and injured—it also emphasizes education and advocacy, providing broader benefits for animal ecology, conservation, and human-wildlife coexistence. Laura remains committed to promoting urban wildlife coexistence and conflict mitigation, as well as fostering public support for wild animal welfare and urban conservation initiatives. She also intends to continue volunteering or working in wildlife rehabilitation and to stay actively involved in local habitat restoration projects. Carys E. Hughes Carys is entering her second year as a student at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan. She hopes to find opportunities as a future vet to work in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation with a focus on veterinary medicine and education. Raised in Nova Scotia, Carys relocated to Vancouver Island in 2019 with her family to pursue university studies. Naturally falling in love with this beautiful island, she now calls Nanaimo home. While studying at the University of Victoria, she participated in a practicum at the BC SPCA Wild Animal Rehabilitation Centre, earning a certificate from the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council. After completing a Bachelor of Science degree in 2023, she travelled to Australia to gain further experience in wildlife rehabilitation, working on an island in Queensland caring for and releasing injured sea turtles. Carys has benefited from opportunities over the past five years to study, work and volunteer in marine science research and in aquaculture in British Columbia and Alberta. Carys is a member of several clubs at vet school in Saskatchewan, including the Wildlife Disease Association and the Wild and Exotic Animal Medicine Club. One of her favourite activities last year was capturing, banding and releasing Saw-Whet Owls. She is currently working at a local vet clinic in Nanaimo for the summer, learning about small animal veterinary practices. These varied experiences have cemented Carys’s passion to build a career and volunteer path in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation, both on Vancouver Island and internationally. Donald Miller Donald Miller is a recent graduate of the Resource Management Officer Technology diploma program at Vancouver Island University and is continuing his education by pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resource Protection at the same institution. He is sincerely grateful for this award, which will greatly support his efforts and passion for conservation. He is currently working in Valemount, BC as an Aquatic Invasive Species Inspector with the Conservation Officer Service of BC , where he helps ensure that all watercraft entering BC are thoroughly inspected to prevent the spread of invasive species by both commercial and recreational vessels.

~wildlife education~ The mission of the North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA) and Centre in Errington is to care for ill, injured and orphaned wildlife, and to educate the public on wildlife and environmental issues. Approximately 800 animals are admitted to NIWRA each year, and we do our best to reintroduce as many as possible back to the wild. But there must continue to be untouched wild areas where we can release animals safely, and where various species can thrive, that’s why we are adding our voice to the chorus calling for the protection of the Hamilton Marsh Wetlands and Forest. [Photo credit: Claire Summers] Biodiversity-rich natural areas like the 360-hectare Hamilton Marsh Wetlands & Forest are so important to preserve – for wildlife, yes, but also for humans. As development continues at a rapid pace, areas that hold water are fewer and farther between. Drought continues to be a problem for Vancouver Island during warmer summers, and flooding is an issue during the wet season. Humans, wildlife and nature all rely on ground water, but the water table continues to lower.  Water retention areas like Hamilton Marsh are crucial for wells, for drinking water, and for feeding our rivers. Birds and other animals need places like Hamilton Marsh to be safe preserved spaces where they can thrive. The Hamilton Marsh complex is a treasure trove of biodiversity and includes a very wide range of habitats & species. Hamilton Marsh is the largest body of water in the French Creek Watershed, and it also contributes to the Little Qualicum Watershed. Marshes and other wetlands play an important role in nature, support biodiversity, and provide water for us and for many other creatures. Water retention is increasingly important due to development and climate change.  Preserving the Hamilton Wetlands & Forest is important for animals, plants, climate change mitigation, and for two watersheds. Now that the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) and Mosaic Forest Management have announced a conditional Contract of Purchase and Sale (CPS) for approximately 360 hectares (ha) of land known as Hamilton Marsh, a precious area could be preserved, but funding support is needed. We think it is a worthy cause. Visit https://hamiltonwetlands.com/ for more information on Hamilton Marsh and why it is important to save, and how you can help. NIWRA, a non-profit organization, is situated in Errington, B.C. We are open to the public daily for viewing of non-releasable animals. 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!

~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!

~wildlife education~ In the dead of winter, most of us are lucky to have heated homes and warm clothes to keep us cozy, but how do wild animals survive in frigid conditions?   Photo credit: istock.com/   Byrdyak Many animals hibernate or go into “winter sleep”. During hibernation, an animal appears to be dead and its heart rate and body temperature and movements slow down.  Creatures like the jumping mouse, little brown bat, and some species of ground squirrels are true hibernators.   Hibernators have regular white fat and special brown fat around the animal’s brain, heart and lungs that sends a quick burst of energy to the vital organs to let the animal know when it’s time to wake up.   Bears do not actually hibernate; instead they go into torpor.  Torpor is a state of decreased physiological activity in an animal, usually marked by a reduced body temperature and metabolic rate. Bears, raccoons, and skunks are all "light hibernators" that use torpor to survive the winter.  What is unique about bears is that they may not eat, drink, urinate or defecate for up to six months during their winter sleep. Most B.C. black and brown bears den for four to six months every year, entering the den in November or December and emerging in March or April. However, Vancouver Island bears may sleep for a much shorter time as our climate tends to be more temperate.    During torpor, the animal can wake up quickly to avoid danger, defend its territory or if there is an opportunity to feed.   Hummingbirds and the little brown bat practice another type of hibernation -- they become dormant during the day to conserve energy.  They may not have consumed enough food to get through the day, so their systems just shut down.   Brumation is another form of becoming dormant; it is hibernation for reptiles and amphibians. Ectothermic or “cold-blooded” animals such as fish, frogs, snakes and turtles burrow themselves in the mud or under leaves and rocks in the winter. Insects find shelter in holes in the ground, under the bark of trees or inside rotting logs.   You can help wildlife in your garden by leaving leaves on the ground to provide coverage for small creatures. And a heated bird bath can be a vital source of drinking water.   You can learn more about wild animals by visiting the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre. 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!