This is probably the most frequent question asked of wildlife rehabilitators. It is also the hardest to answer. It is difficult to explain in a few concise sentences. The truth is the profession is relatively new on the scene and is still struggling to come up with its own description. The hawk board is currently working with D.E.F.R.A in setting up standards and guidelines for all raptor centre's and sanctuaries.
Wildlife rehabilitators wear many hats. During the course of a single day wildlife rehabilitators function as animal caretakers, nutritionists, behaviourists, emergency medical technicians, naturalists, natural historians, educators, secretaries, animal housing specialists, capture and transport specialists for injured wildlife, and record keepers, providers of legal expertise and assist the public with wildlife issues. We do not get financial assistance from the government. In fact, most wildlife centres are self supported or supported by donations only.
It is a mistake to assume that wildlife rehabilitators are all veterinarians. That is not the case. It is also true that most veterinarians, unless they are wildlife veterinarians, are not wildlife rehabilitators nor are they equipped to handle wild species. Wild animals have very different needs than domestic animals. The focus on caring for wild species is to keep them wild so they will return to the wild. Everything from handling to housing and food offered is specific to the individual species.
|
Each year in mid to late Spring, we are contacted by people who have found baby owls that have fallen out of their nests. If the owlet is a young Tawny Owl and is in no immediate danger, then, more often than not, the best course of action is to leave it where it is.