Find out all that goes on behind the scenes and in the news here at NIWRA. In Other News Filter by Story Category Click here to Subscribe to our Latest Stories!

One of NIWRA’s main goal is to educate the public about wildlife and environmental issues. Discover & Learn Immerse your class in an environment that promotes observation, inquiry, and critical thinking. School Visits Request Your School Visit See our work in action! Video Archive Videos Youtube Channel Use our free K-12 classroom video, "Animals Among Us" to learn about Invasive Species and more! Watch the Free Video Free Resource Wildlife FAQs Animal in distress Litter kills wildlife Avoid rat poison Found a baby animal Unwanted pet turtles Click the bullet points below to find out some interesting information about wildlife: Birds attacked by cats Invasive species Responsible Sportsperson Wild 'n Free Articles BY SYLVIA CAMPBELL Learn about animal behaviour, habitat, adaptations, and more from local wildlife expert, Sylvia Campbell. Go to articles Black Bear Rehabilitation In 1997, NIWRA made the decision to construct and manage a bear program for Vancouver Island bears. A captive-bred bear named Knut came to the centre and helped us perfect the design and operation of our facility by teaching us about: the care and feeding of bears bears' hibernation habits how to mimic an environment in which bears can thrive the influence of human contact, known as imprinting, on animals Read More black-bear-programs Bear Cub Program When a bear arrives at our recovery centre it means something has gone terribly wrong in the wild. Each year, orphaned babies are brought to us, and although we are completely captivated by these adorable, helpless, little creatures, we also feel sadness at the death of their mother. Without its mother, a baby cub has no chance of survival in the wild. Read More Raptor Rehabilitation Thanks to our salmon streams and forests, BC's west coast is one of the few remaining strongholds for bald eagles since they provide good breeding grounds and a place to spend the winter. One of the greatest threats to the survival of BC eagles involves human activity, which can include: gunshot wounds collision with vehicles electrocution lead poisoning from ingesting lead pellets We are happy to report that NIWRA is able to rescue, rehabilitate, and release most of the 50 - 60 eagles brought to us each year. Read More

Seeking an experienced Animal Care Manager to oversee daily operations, staff supervision, and animal welfare at our facility. Animal Care Manager Join Our Team! Animal Care Manager Job Posting Salary Range: $65,000.00 - $75,000.00 (CDN) The North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA) seeks an Animal Care Manager to join our team. Based in Errington on beautiful Vancouver Island, NIWRA is a well-established, non-profit, registered charity focused on the rehabilitation of injured, ill and orphaned wildlife and public education on wildlife and environmental issues. Reporting to the Senior Director of Operations, the Animal Care Manager will lead the animal care team in delivering exceptional care to wildlife patients and permanent residents. This role is essential in supporting our facility's programs, operation, development and integrity. What We're Looking For We seek a confident, experienced manager and leader who communicates effectively, demonstrates professional maturity, and thrives in a dynamic, purpose-driven environment. While a background in wildlife rehabilitation or conservation is a definite asset, it’s not essential—we’re ready to train the right person who brings a strong work ethic, leadership skills, and a deep commitment to animal care. Key Responsibilities Wildlife Care: Supervise, support, and mentor the animal care team Collaborate with NIWRA’s wildlife veterinarian and the Ministry of Environment Oversee wildlife intakes, treatment, and rehabilitation Follow established treatment protocols and diet plans Lead and grow our Black Bear Rehabilitation Program Manage wildlife transport between rehab centres Ensure the safety and well-being of both the centre's wildlife and the visiting public Oversee ongoing care for both rehabilitation patients and permanent residents Facility & Program Support: Help maintain the high expectations of the centre's leadership Provide daily motivation to staff to follow animal care protocol, safety techniques (animal & public) and time management, following the centre's policy and procedure manuals Maintain accurate records, files, and reporting for management and the Board of Directors Working with staff, provide multimedia content (stories, videos) for social media and promotional use Ensure facility cleanliness and adherence to health and safety protocols Recruit, train, and supervise animal care staff, volunteers, and interns Oversee the Discover Bear Program and educational bird presentations Who You Are Key Attributes: Mature judgment, integrity, and professionalism Strong interpersonal and team-building skills Passionate about wildlife care Physically fit and comfortable in hands-on animal care role Willingness to be hands-on in learning all aspects of wildlife rehabilitation Education & Experience: 3+ years of proven and relevant management/supervisory experience Proven ability to lead teams and manage challenging or sensitive situations Required Skills: Highly organized and adaptable to changing priorities Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving abilities Strong verbal and written communication across all organizational levels Capable of working independently and under pressure Flexible availability, including for emergencies Technically proficient with Microsoft Office and digital tools Why Join NIWRA? Be part of a mission-driven organization making a real impact on wildlife Work with a supportive, values-based team in a unique environment Enjoy a competitive salary and extended health benefits Live and work on beautiful Vancouver Island, surrounded by nature North Island Wildlife Recovery Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences. To apply for this position, please respond by email to Joyce Lee, Executive Director at wildlife@niwra.org citing NIWRA - Animal Care Manager in the subject line. Please submit a cover letter, resume and two professional references (with contact phone numbers). Detail your experience and qualifications, and outline why you are interested in this position. We would like to thank all applicants. However, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please.

VISIT > Group Visit Request So much to see and learn! Bring your group for a day of discovery, connection, and shared experiences. Whether you’re visiting with a school, organization, or team, we’ll help you plan a smooth and memorable group visit tailored to your interests. Begin by downloading the Group Visit Trip Planner . (It is required reading for your Group Visit Request below.) Group Visit Request Type of Tour Requested* Guided Self-Guided Name of Group and Location* Name of Trip Organizer* Trip Organizer's Email* Name of Leader in Charge* Phone Number of Leader in Charge* Total Number of Adults/Seniors* Minimum 15 to maximum 45 Total Number of Children* Children 12 &under require one adult for every 5 students. Children 13+ require one adult for every 10-15 students. Age(s) of visiting children* Will you need bus parking?* Yes No Requested Tour Date* Second Choice for Tour Date* Preferred Tour Start Time* Plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your start time. Departure Time from NIWRA* Your Payment Type* Cheque Debit Credit Card Please notify us of any special needs your participants have and how you will support them while onsite.* Mark n/a if this does not apply. Do you have any additional questions or information to share with us? REQUIRED: Read and check the following statements to acknowledge roles and responsibilities. I UNDERSTAND that my tour is not confirmed but has been submitted as a request. NIWRA administration will contact me with confirmation that my tour is scheduled and any required volunteer tour guides have been requested. * I UNDERSTAND that Adults and Parents are responsible for the supervision of children/students before, during and after the tour. * I UNDERSTAND that it is my responsibility to call NIWRA if we are going to arrive more than 10 minutes late. * I have read and agree to the terms above. * I have read and agree to the terms detailed in the Group Visit Trip Planner. * Submit Your Group Visit Request

Thank You! Your request has been successfully submitted. It will be reviewed and our tour visit coordinator will contact you shortly. If you have any questions or would like to check on the status of your request, please email the NIWRA office at tours@niwra.org.

The North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA) is a non-profit, world-class rehabilitation facility situated on 8 acres of immaculately manicured grounds, caring for animals with all types of needs, including birds with broken wings, orphaned black bears, electrocuted eagles and much more! About Us Our Mission To care for ill, injured, and orphaned wildlife and to educate the public on wildlife and environmental issues. Who We Are & What We Do Founded in 1985, the North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA) is a non-profit, world-class rehabilitation facility situated on 8 acres of immaculately manicured grounds, caring for animals with all types of needs, including birds with broken wings, orphaned black bears, electrocuted eagles and much more! Check out our Impact Report . NIWRA’s main goals are to: Reintroduce as many animals back to the wild as possible. Educate the public about wildlife and environmental issues. Our Team Our wildlife recovery centre could not function without the following group of very talented individuals: Dr. Malcolm McAdie, our veterinarian who provides highly specialized care to all our animals volunteer Board of Directors a small dedicated staff more than 80 amazing volunteers who provide: guided public and school tours, animal care, yard/grounds care, gift shop operations, and community outreach Our Programs We are able to offer the most current wildlife care practices from rescue to release thanks to: staff who keep up to date with training and techniques expert veterinary care customized diets specialized handling equipment and housing a graduated system of healing protocols described in our Black Bear Rehabilitation , Bear Cub Program , and Raptor Rehabilitation information This knowledge has allowed us to offer top-notch education programs and tours for our guests. Our Scholarship 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. Check out our 2026 Scholarship Recipients . We invite you to come to the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre to learn about wildlife by viewing: the largest eagle flight enclosure of its kind in Canada a Museum of Nature showcasing the animals of Vancouver Island an interactive Learning Centre beautiful enclosures to get close to more than 60 resident, non-releasable animals a native wildlife garden, bird watching and ponds and more! Contact Us: wildlife@niwra.org | 250-248-8534 Address: 1240 Leffler Road, Errington, BC CANADA Open Google Map Click Here to see a more detailed history of NIWRA! Meet Our Partners We are grateful to have Partners so committed to wildlife rehab!

We have an active Facebook page that tracks the activities at the Centre. We also host public events throughout the year and fundraisers. What's Happening Our Latest News Responsible Hunting Birds Face Hazards When Migrating > View all NIWRA news stories Facebook Facebook Facebook Youtube > Go to our Youtube channel Timber the Beaver enjoys her breakfast. Play Video September 23, 2026 Play Video September 23, 2026 Play Video Watch Now Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Close

SHOP > Memberships Annual Passes Quick View Adult Annual Pass | $45 Add to Cart Quick View Child Annual Pass | $18 Add to Cart

EDUCATION > Wild 'n Free (Articles) Wild 'n Free Articles about animal behaviour, habitat, adaptations, and more! By Sylvia Campbell

Do you enjoy wildlife education? Join our team. Apply today. Wildlife Education Program Coordinator - Assistant Volunteer Coordinator Join Our Team! Wildlife Education Program Coordinator - Assistant Volunteer Coordinator The Organization: The North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre is a well-established wildlife rehabilitation and education facility in Errington, BC, on beautiful Vancouver Island. Founded in 1984 and overseen by a Board of Directors, Senior Director of Operations and Executive Director, the North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA) has continued to grow due to the dedication of staff, fantastic volunteers and incredible community support. NIWRA is a not-for-profit registered charity that advocates for the well-being of Vancouver Island wildlife and strives to educate the public about wildlife and related issues. The Position: The Wildlife Education Program Coordinator - Assistant Volunteer Coordinator will work under the direction of the Executive Director. The incumbent must be professional in appearance and in all aspects of his/her work to emulate the high standards NIWRA sets. The Education Program is integral to NIWRA's mission to educate the public on wildlife and nature issues. The Wildlife Education Program Coordinator provides leadership and guidance to the education program volunteers (adult and youth) and will also assist the Volunteer Coordinator. Responsibilities are performed with considerable independence and reviewed periodically. This full-time position has three components that support NIWRA's established programs. Responsibilities: Wildlife Education Program Coordinator Become certified as a NIWRA tour guide Train education volunteers Work collaboratively with the NIWRA education volunteers Display proficiency in the NIWRA narrative Play a significant role in all NIWRA tours Represent and reinforce/enforce the NIWRA narrative and expected conduct Monitor progress and organize training opportunities through shadowing, training tours, and extra engagement events (on and offsite). Biofacts: Responsible for maintenance, storage and inventory (including taxidermy mounts/displays) and ordering, developing and/or procuring new (and replacement) items. Manage in-house communications platform: post shifts for tours and pair shadows with appropriately trained guides. Answer questions. Provide animal care updates. Schedule orientation and training sessions Develop and update educational manuals as necessary Microscopes: Train volunteers to use the microscopes with the public and organize various education opportunities (for volunteers and visitors). Other duties as required. Assistant Volunteer Coordinator Assists the Volunteer Coordinator to recruit and onboard volunteers Receive volunteer applications Conduct reference checks and handle follow-up calls Send RCMP Police Information Check package Schedule meetings with the Volunteer Coordinator and Department Heads Arrange and provide orientation tours for new volunteers Create name tags for volunteers Promote NIWRA’s volunteer program to community groups Green Teen Coordinator The Green Teen Coordinator is responsible for the safety and support of our youth docents, whether onsite or offsite. Proficient in all things Green Teen (youth docents) Lead trainer of Green Teens, coordinating and providing support to volunteers. Communications: Applications. Intake/orientation in spring. Maintain the current active wait list of youth volunteers. Onboard youth to in-house communications platform and train on use. Organize pre-season training (with the help of returning members) and prepare for the annual Eagle Release event in April. Post shifts throughout summer. Ensure opportunities and engagement for Green Teens. Plan for appropriate adult support. Coordinate Green Teens to assist Animal handler presentations in the Learning Centre and at occasional offsite events. Handle end-of-season arrangements (letters/gifts, certificates, celebration). Address issues regarding appropriate behaviour as warranted. Research various forms of education and engagement techniques Other duties as required Qualifications: This rewarding position requires a mature person who works well within a team and independently and can readily adapt to changing circumstances. It requires attention to detail. One year experience in administration Completed High School diploma Strong knowledge of Vancouver Island wildlife and nature Must be able to work weekends and evenings when required Must be willing to get an RCMP Police Information Check as a condition of employment Must have a valid BC Driver’s license with a clean driving abstract Must be able to speak and write English fluently. Preferred Skills and Abilities: Excellent interpersonal, communication and public relations skills Background in education an asset Experience working with volunteers Experience in public speaking and leading groups Knowledge or experience with educational programming Ability to follow directions Strong leadership skills Attention to detail with strong problem-solving skills Excellent teamwork skills and a strong work ethic Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office programs Highly organized with the ability to multi-task Willingness to learn. Compensation & Work Schedule: $21.00/hour to start and $23.00/hour upon successful completion of the probation period. Benefits: Extended health benefits upon successful completion of the probation period. Full-time position FORTY (40) hours per week. Must be flexible to meet the needs of the organization. Some weekends and evenings required. To apply: Please email a cover letter, your resume and two professional references via email to wildlife@niwra.org Attention: Joyce Lee . Please write "Education Program Coordinator" in the subject line. We appreciate all applications, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. We reserve the right to close the vacancies early depending on the number of applications received, so you are encouraged to submit your details as soon as possible if you are interested.

Home to more than sixty resident, non-releasable animals as well as raptors, bears, and other Vancouver Island wildlife who will return to the wild, we welcome families, individuals, school tours, and community groups to visit us 7 days a week. Hours 9:00 am - 4:30pm Daily Admission Adult $15 Children 4–16 $6 Children 3 & under FREE Veterans & Military FREE Our Location 1240 Leffler Road, Errington, BC Locate Us on Google Maps Plan Your Visit Our self-guided map will show will help you make the most out of your visit. NIWRA Map Download Map Learn More Find out about our facility, accessibility, parking, picnic areas, and more. Onsite Services Book a guided tour for your group or organization (15 to 45 people) . Group Tours Request Your Group Visit Meet Our Animals Home to more than sixty resident, non-releasable animals as well as those who will return to the wild Eagles - Owls - Black Bears - Hawks - Turtles - Ravens - Turkey Vultures and more! Symbolic adoptions support the care of our non-releasable animals View Adoption Animals in Shop Dan's Nook Wildlife Garden Visit Our Garden Enjoy local wildlife in their natural habitat, including a mini-wetland, featuring: tadpoles hatching dragonfly nymphs emerging bees pollinating Marsh Marigolds blooming hummingbirds feeding Bear Den Gifts Looking for the perfect gift for the animal lover in your life? Or just looking for a unique gift? Bear Den Gifts has you covered: books on animals and the environment local wildlife-themed art clothing home decor and much more... Visit us in person or online! Let's Get Shopping!

Wildlife Garden Caretaker and Host Join Our Team! Front Desk Gift Shop staff (part-time, seasonal ) The Organization: North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre, a world-class wildlife rehabilitation centre, located in Errington, on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, cares for ill, injured and orphaned wildlife, and educates the public on wildlife and environmental issues. The Position: The North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre is accepting applications for full-time summer Front Desk staff to work in our gift shop, meeting and greeting visitors and offering outstanding customer service and sales to visitors. Successful applicants should possess previous experience in customer service and retail sales. The position works under the direction, support and supervision of the Chief Administrative Officer. Responsibilities: Welcome visitors to the Centre, presenting a positive, professional deportment as a first point of contact Sell admission tickets, annual passes, animal adoptions and process donations Stock and sell merchandise, handling cash, credit and debit transactions on a Point of Sales system Answering phones and performing other administrative tasks as required Perform duties in other departments as needed Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Requirements: This rewarding position requires a mature person that works well within a team and independently and can readily adapt to changing circumstances. It is physically demanding and requires attention to detail. Must be able to communicate fluently in English Must be able to work 5 days a week with 2 consecutive days off Must be reliable and dependable Previous retail and merchandising experience preferred Self motivated, demonstrates initiative, ability to work alone and in teams Flexibility to work weekends, weekdays and holidays Strong time management skills Seasonal 2024 Hours: 24 hours per week Wage: $18.00 per hour To apply: Please email cover letter, availability dates, resume and 2 references to wildlife@niwra.org Attention Joyce Lee . Please write Front Desk Summer Position in the subject line. We appreciate all applications, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. We reserve the right to close the vacancies early depending on the number of applications received, so encourage you to submit your details as soon as possible if you are interested.

Emergency Info Wildlife Emergencies Direct Line for ANIMALS IN DISTRESS | 250-927-6025 Wildlife drop-off is available on-site every day, year-round. Staff are on-site from 9am – 4:30pm. After hours, place wildlife in the red animal admissions drop-off building (east end of parking lot). Please DO NOT use email or Facebook message to send wildlife emergency information. Circumstances regarding injured bears or suspected orphan bear cubs : Please report to the Ministry/Conservation Officer service at: 1-877-952-7277 Also report to NIWRA at: 250-927-6025 or animalcare@niwra.org What to do if you encounter injured, sick, or orphaned wildlife Once you have determined an animal is orphaned or injured … If it is safe to do so, capture the animal using a towel or blanket. You may wish to wear gloves as well. If you need assistance or advice (e.g. handling raptors), call the Emergency number. Transport the animal to the Centre in a well-ventilated box that is lined with a towel. Keep contact with wildlife to a minimum to eliminate stress. Do not give the animal any food or water. Do not place the box in your vehicle trunk or leave in a vehicle with the windows closed. If you come across an injured seal, the first thing to do is call for help. According to Fisheries and Oceans Canada (Pacific Region), seal pups should be left alone unless intervention is necessary. Please call their “Observe, Report and Record” line at 1-800-465-4336 if you need help. NOTE: The Centre is not permitted to admit domestic or farm animals, including rabbits. Leave fawns where they are unless they are injured or you know their mother is dead. If you find a baby bird that has fallen from its nest, you can return it to the nest unless it is injured, cold or wet. After returning it to the nest, watch from a discreet distance to be sure the parent accepts it. Don’t alarm the parent more than necessary. IMPORTANT : Wildlife rescue is ONLY NECESSARY when an animal is clearly orphaned or injured . In many cases, baby animals appear to be alone but the parents are nearby — just not visible.

Upcoming Events No events at the moment

Terms & Conditions By using this website and/or placing an order you agree to be bound by the terms and conditions set out below. At NIWRA, we want our supporters to feel happy and satisfied with their purchases. Therefore, each product offered for sale has a detailed description so that you know exactly what you are purchasing. Please ensure that you thoroughly check the item description before you buy it. If you have any questions or queries regarding an item, please contact us at 250-248-8534 or wildlife@niwra.org . Order Information To order, please read through each item description carefully before adding it to the shopping cart by using the “Add to Cart” button. When you have finished shopping, you can review and/or modify your purchases in the Cart on the top of the Checkout page. If you are happy with the contents of your Cart, you can then proceed further down the Checkout page where you will be asked for the Donor's Address, Recipient's Address (if different from Donor's Address), adoption certificate information and whether or not you would like to subscribe to our newsletter. Continue further down the Checkout page to view your 'Final Order Confirmation,' which reflects the order that will be sent to both NIWRA and PayPal. (If you wish to modify your purchases at this point, you must return to the top of the page and make changes to the Cart.) Please remember to check the "Terms and Conditions" box on the Checkout page before clicking the “Proceed to PayPal” button. You will then be taken to the PayPal secure site to make the payment. Please note that NIWRA does not have any access to your bank or card details. These are held solely at the PayPal secure payment site. Therefore, any trouble with PayPal payments will need to be resolved through PayPal. The only details we request are those appearing on the Checkout page. If you select the option to 'Create an account,' these details will be stored securely on our server using Secure Socket Layer protocol (SSL). This will allow you to return to our site, log in, then access past Orders as well as modify Addresses and Account Details on the My Account page. All prices stated on this website are in Canadian dollars. We only ship to addresses in Canada. You will receive a confirmation e-mail from NIWRA outlining your purchase details and from PayPal about your payment once you have completed your transaction. Payment NIWRA uses PayPal for all its ordering and online payments. PayPal is a safe and secure payment gateway that accepts credit and debit card payments. PayPal no longer requires you to have an account with them to use their services, which means you can use them like any other secure payment gateway using your credit or debit cards. PayPal handles all of NIWRA's payments and is secure and safe. They use 128-bit encryption which is the highest level commercially available. What is PayPal? PayPal is a third-party payment processor that enables online credit and debit card payments over a secure system. PayPal automatically encrypts your confidential information in transit from your computer to theirs using Secure Socket Layer protocol (SSL) with an encryption length of 128-bits (the highest level commercially available). Once your information reaches PayPal, it resides on a server that is heavily guarded. PayPal servers are not directly connected to the internet in order to protect your details. Only PayPal has access to your confidential credit/debit card details. No credit or debit card details are ever seen by NIWRA. For more information regarding payments via PayPal, please read PayPal's security information . Presentation Each product purchased will be presented as outlined on the product description page. Shipping and Handling charges are added to the purchase price if the purchase is being mailed. Delivery Purchases are usually dispatched within 7 working days from receipt of Paypal payment or sooner if we are able. Any inquiries regarding the shipping of your package may be made by contacting NIWRA directly at 250-248-8534. Delivery/handling charges will be added to the purchase of the adoption package. Local pickup is free. Please call NIWRA (250-248-8534) to arrange a pickup time.