10,000 Birds

DECEMBER 6, 2013

Wildlife rehabilitators are not known for our bling. People who work with wildlife wearing nice clothes? The vet believed there was no way he could pass it, so the only options were risky, painful, long recovery-time surgery, or euthanasia. As for nice clothing … right! Next week: when birds steal non-jewelry items.

Bald Eagle 250

Bald Eagle Wildlife Rehabilitation Vet Turkey 250

10,000 Birds

OCTOBER 7, 2016

Cat and dog rescuers share with wildlife rehabilitators the unfortunate burden of healing the hurt caused by other humans. A year later, in a new city and at a new wildlife hospital, I got my official volunteer apron and badge. The bird was stripped of feathers and so badly battered that euthanasia was probable.

Cats 223

Cats Stray Cat Stray Los Angeles 223

Animal Person

SEPTEMBER 5, 2009

I was watching a news segment on a wildlife rehabilitation center here in Florida. Note to everyone who works with birds and water fowl: Hypothermia and rapid freezing are not appropriate methods of euthanasia and are not considered to be humane unless the animal is anesthetized prior to freezing.

Euthanasia 100

Euthanasia Wildlife Rehabilitation Fowl 2002 100