EDUCATION > Animals Among Us Animals Among Us Use Our FREE Classroom Resource Today! (If you are unable to view the videos below, please visit Animals Among Us on Youtube ) This 21-minute video can be presented in its entirety or shown in 4 parts: What to do when you find a fawn (at 0:40) What to do when you find a baby bird on the ground (at 3:30) Invasive Species – Leave Bullfrogs where they are (at 7:13) What makes a good pet? (at 18:03)

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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.

We Need a New Building for Our Songbirds! Each year, we admit hundreds of ill, injured or orphaned birds. Although our current building has served us for many years, it had become dilapidated and must be torn down and replaced. With only a few months until the busy baby bird season, we must build soon. WE NEED YOUR HELP to build a new centre with improvements that will enable us to care for our little birds from nestling to fledgling to release. Help us make sure every little bird gets the expert care it needs from rescue to release. Songbird Rehabilitation Centre Fundraiser Ways to Help Build Our New Songbird Rehabilitation Centre Bid on This Painting Click above image to enlarge Guardian of Time is a Gallery Wrapped Canvas Long time NIWRA supporter and international artist, Michael Schutte, donated a special painting for our fundraiser. Michael spent years developing his style of Romantic Realism by studying famous Dutch artists. We are accepting donation bids on this painting until Tuesday, December 15th at 12:00 noon. Painting can be viewed at Bear Den Gift Shop at NIWRA (open daily 9am - 4:30pm) Value: $2500.00 Starting Bid: $1000.00 Bidding Increments: $500 Email Joyce: wildlife@niwra.org to place your bid. Check our Homepage for current highest bid. The winning donor will be notified and arrangements for payment and pickup can be made once bidding ends. "Guardian of Time" | Depicts an owl and Medieval Dutch Sun Clock (Zonnewijzer) Rich, warm palette | 24" wide by 36" high Guardian Painting Other Ways to Donate * All Donations Welcome * All Donors of $500 or more will have their name engraved on our Songbird Rehabilitation Centre plaque In Person You can come to the Gift Shop desk at NIWRA and make your donation in person. Let us know it is for the songbirds. Online You can make an online donation directly to NIWRA at CanadaHelps. Donate at CanadaHelps Over the Phone If you prefer not to make payments online, we will happily take donations over the phone by credit card. 250-248-8534 ext 3. Please let staff know your donation is for the songbirds. By Mail Or you could send a cheque to: NIWRA Box 364 1240 Leffler Rd. Errington, BC V0R 1V0 Please write 'Songbird' on bottom of the cheque.

VISIT > Services & Facilites Services & Facilities Wheelchairs/Access Our paths are graveled and wheelchair accessible. Two wheelchairs are available for visitor use at no charge. Caregivers A caregiver accompanying a disabled person who requires assistance receives FREE entry. Participant in the Easter Seal Access 2 Card program. Parking Parking is free. Reserved parking spots for the disabled are available in the main lot near the entrance. Gift Shop Bear Den Gifts is open daily and features unique clothing, wildlife & nature books, and other unique souvenirs to remember your visit. Washrooms Washrooms are wheelchair accessible and have one baby changing station. They are located in the Eagle Flight Enclosure building. Picnic/Play Areas Picnic areas with tables and benches are scattered around the grounds for your enjoyment. The Field of Stones playground is located near the Wildlife Garden and picnic areas.

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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 Cute and furry but deadly predators – outdoor cats. How Bear Aware Are You? > View all NIWRA news stories Facebook Facebook Facebook Youtube > Go to our Youtube channel Young Eaglet Intake Play Video Holiday Gifts That Help Wildlife | Shop at North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre Play Video Sounds of the Nighthawk #rarebirds #coolsounds #birdsounds #nighthawk #wildliferescue Play Video Watch Now Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Close

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 Open Daily 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM 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

Robin & Sylvia Campbell Scholarship to Benefit Wildlife 2026 Recipients Announced The Robin & Sylvia Campbell Scholarship to Benefit Wildlife is awarded annually to university and high school 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 2026 Recipients Alexia Constantinou Alexia is a PhD candidate in the Applied Conservation Macro Ecology (ACME) Lab at the University of Victoria, studying British Columbia’s red-listed Columbian fisher population. Her research focuses on the impacts of forestry and wildfire on fisher habitat and collaborative conservation with First Nations, industry, and government. She serves as Chair of the Conservation Affairs Committee for the BC Chapter of The Wildlife Society and is a registered Professional Biologist (RPBio). Peyton Tidler Peyton is a Biology student at Vancouver Island University with a lifelong passion for the natural world, from prehistoric life to modern wildlife. He plans to specialize in paleontology or zoology after completing his degree. Peyton served as Educational Assistant and Summer Student at NIWRA in 2025 and has returned in the same role in 2026. He also volunteers with NIWRA’s Education Team and is an active member of the Qualicum Paleontology Club. Shelise Lee Shelise is entering her second year in the Bachelor of Science (Biology) program at Vancouver Island University, with the goal of becoming a wildlife biologist. Inspired by a childhood surrounded by Australia’s diverse wildlife, she is passionate about conservation and ecosystem health. Shelise volunteers with NIWRA, works as a summer student, and participates in the VIU Bird Banding Project, gaining hands-on experience in wildlife rehabilitation, field research, and conservation. Logan Morton Shelise is entering her second year in the Bachelor of Science (Biology) program at Vancouver Island University, with the goal of becoming a wildlife biologist. Inspired by a childhood surrounded by Australia’s diverse wildlife, she is passionate about conservation and ecosystem health. Shelise volunteers with NIWRA, works as a summer student, and participates in the VIU Bird Banding Project, gaining hands-on experience in wildlife rehabilitation, field research, and conservation. Addie Nikula Entering her fourth year of a Biology degree at the University of Victoria, Addie is specializing in animal biology with the goal of becoming a veterinarian. After completing an animal care internship at NIWRA, she developed a strong interest in wildlife rehabilitation and veterinary medicine. Passionate about Vancouver Island’s ecosystems, Addie hopes to combine her education and hands-on experience to pursue a career as a wildlife veterinarian. Sable Gilmore Sable is entering the final year of a combined Bachelor of Science in Biology and Psychology at the University of Victoria, where she is completing an Honours thesis in Biology. Inspired by a lifelong appreciation for nature, she is passionate about local biodiversity and environmental education. She works as a Visitor Information Counsellor with the Strathcona Wilderness Institute, helping foster curiosity and stewardship among park visitors. Branwen Ackroyd Branwen developed a lifelong passion for wildlife and environmental stewardship while exploring Vancouver Island’s forests and backcountry. After earning a Veterinary Technology diploma, she gained experience in emergency and specialty animal care, developing an interest in wildlife medicine. She plans to continue her training through Northern College’s Wildlife Rehabilitation program and hopes to build a career supporting wildlife rehabilitation, endangered species recovery, and ecosystem conservation. Kayla Williams Kayla is a third-year veterinary student at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine with a passion for wildlife conservation. A Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator (CWR), she is interested in wildlife epidemiology, zoonotic diseases, and rehabilitation. Kayla has held leadership roles in wildlife-focused student organizations and aspires to become a wildlife veterinarian, advancing rehabilitation efforts while supporting the long-term health of wildlife populations and ecosystems.

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!

Do you have a passion for wildlife? Become a Green Teen Youth Docent at a world-class rehabilitation centre where we help ill, injured and orphaned wildlife and educate the public on wildlife and environmental issues. GIVE/VOLUNTEER > Green Teens GREEN TEEN YOUTH DOCENT VOLUNTEER PROGRAM Requirements and How to Apply Applicant Requirements: Must be between 12 - 18 years of age and must complete and submit a Green Teen Volunteer Application (download) and Parent Agreement (will be provided to successful applicants) Applicants and a parent/guardian must be able to attend an interview and orientation/meet and greet session Successful applicants must attend all orientation and training sessions Provide own transportation to and from NIWRA and offsite events Commit to volunteering at least thirty (30) hours during the season of March - August For Parents and Guardians: Our Volunteer Green Teen Docent Program involves the whole family. Committing to the minimum hours will require your assistance, cooperation, support, encouragement and transportation. Volunteers unable to meet the standards may be asked to leave the program. How to Apply: Download the application form Complete all sections of the application form and email to education@niwra.org You can also bring your application to NIWRA or mail to: North Island Wildlife Recovery Association Box 364, 1240 Leffler Rd., Errington, BC V0R 1V0 Download Application

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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!

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