tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64112534754948595432024-02-06T23:31:23.568-06:00Alabama Wildlife CenterNews & information about the rehabilitation of injured and orphaned native Alabama wild birds.Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-112326092005014412011-04-28T15:56:00.003-05:002011-04-28T16:00:17.739-05:00Give a Hoot; Rescue a Wild Bird Injured or Orphaned by the Storms<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIqLwl1QvkdFFdd_ZdXGqyyS0Bujsy5kBQXFhFb_y-Q472Lq8PdBHpbe2ecnpKF_VhOoIrKI3spGL2s1hQXHKrYFRmlZ32U9yiXfEe69D1X0pTIewZY3BBQ-bf4W0J5-ML9YFLKKJrCBLM/s1600/IMG_0624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213px" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIqLwl1QvkdFFdd_ZdXGqyyS0Bujsy5kBQXFhFb_y-Q472Lq8PdBHpbe2ecnpKF_VhOoIrKI3spGL2s1hQXHKrYFRmlZ32U9yiXfEe69D1X0pTIewZY3BBQ-bf4W0J5-ML9YFLKKJrCBLM/s320/IMG_0624.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div><br />
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<em>Guidelines on How to Help</em><br />
In the aftermath of storms and tornadoes, it is common to find wild birds that have been injured or babies that may have been orphaned or separated from their family. These birds can possibly perish if they do not receive care as soon as possible.<br />
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The nonprofit <a href="http://awrc.org/">Alabama Wildlife Center</a>’s mission is to rehabilitate injured and orphaned wild birds with the goal of returning them to the wild. AWC also operates a <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Wildlife%20Help%20Info%20Line">Help Line</a> to give advice and referrals regarding wildlife. The following guidelines should be followed when a bird that appears to need assistance is found.<br />
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<div><strong>Assess the Situation</strong></div>The first thing to do is to determine the type of injuries and the condition of the bird. Observe it carefully and notice if it can move, if it’s limping or making sounds, does it have feathers or is it covered in down, what colors are the feathers, notice the shape of the beak, etc. It is also very important to note the exact location where the bird is found. Look around to see if you can identify the bird’s nest or any sign of the parent birds in the area. <br />
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<strong>Call for Help</strong><br />
The next step is to call the Alabama Wildlife Center’s Wildlife Help Line at (205) 663-7930, extension 2 and leave a brief message that includes name and telephone number with area code. A trained specialist monitors the line from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. every day, and returns calls within the hour to give advice on what to do next. <br />
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<div>Callers should be prepared to spend a few minutes answering questions and taking advice. Depending on what kind of bird is injured and what condition it is in, callers may be asked to return the bird to where it was found, place it in its nest (if it can be located or in a substitute nest), or to bring it to AWC or the nearest licensed rehabber for help. </div><br />
<div><strong>Provide a Sheltering Box </strong></div>If asked to bring the bird to AWC, the first step is to provide a sheltering box. Find a roomy (relative to the size of the bird) cardboard box with no holes and with four flaps on top that can be closed. Make certain that the bottom of the box is securely taped on the outside to prevent the bird from falling through when the box is lifted. Line the bottom of the box with pine straw or a soft clean cloth. Get a towel or blanket large enough to cover the box and a towel for capture. <br />
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<div>Next, put a towel over the entire bird, including its head, and pick it up very gently so as not to damage its feathers. Put the bird in the cardboard box (removing the towel) and close the top. There is no need to cut air holes. Drape a towel or blanket over the box to help make it as dark as possible, which has a calming effect on the bird. Resist the temptation to open the top and peer in at the bird or to touch it. This causes stress and reduces their chance of recovery. Birds view people as predators, not as kind-hearted helpers. Do not offer food or water to the bird. Improper nutrition can do great harm.</div><br />
<div><strong>Transport the Patient to AWC</strong></div>Transport the bird if requested, assuring that the box doesn’t slide around in the vehicle and maintain a quiet and smoke-free environment. AWC is located inside Oak Mountain State Park at <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Contact%20Info">100 Terrace Drive in Pelham, Alabama</a> and is open for admissions from 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. every day. If it is after hours, put the covered box containing the bird in a warm, dry, quiet and dark location, keep pets and curious children away from it, and transport it to AWC as soon as possible.<br />
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<div><strong>Protect Yourself</strong></div>Birds of prey, such as owls and hawks, have powerful talons and beaks that are designed to rip and tear flesh. Therefore, if an injured bird of prey is found, the specialist that calls from AWC will give special instructions on careful handling of these birds (such as using leather gloves and wearing a heavy, long-sleeved jacket when handling them). For those that are not comfortable handling a bird of prey, AWC has volunteers throughout the state (subject to availability) that have been trained to capture and transport injured birds of prey to AWC. <br />
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<div><strong>The Law</strong></div>It is illegal (subject to fines and imprisonment) for anyone but a licensed wildlife rehabilitator to possess any native bird species and even rehabbers cannot keep them for any reason other than to nurse them back to health or for educational purposes. It is, however, legal to rescue an injured bird and transport it to a rehabber; transporters are safe under a "good Samaritan" clause in the law.<br />
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<div><strong>Donations to Help</strong></div>AWC receives no state or federal funds and relies primarily on community members for donations. Donations can be made online at <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Donate%20Cash">http://www.awrc.org/Donate%20Cash</a>, or by telephone Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at (205) 663-7930, extension 8. There is also a <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Wishlist">Wish List</a> of needed items available on the website, and those items can be delivered every day from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.<br />
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<div><strong>Other Wildlife</strong></div>If injured or orphaned mammals (squirrels, deer, raccoons, etc.) or reptiles and amphibians (snakes, lizards, frogs, etc.) are found, contact:<br />
<ul><li>Wild Mammal Care of Alabama at (205) 871-7803</li>
<li>Alabama Reptile Rescue Sanctuary at (205) 253-1283</li>
</ul><br />
<div>Thank you for helping our wild friends!</div>Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-26752037911634262332011-03-01T10:58:00.000-06:002011-03-01T10:58:33.717-06:00Cooking is for the Birds!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcwpNb4K2imyfW__f8Tmi0a0W97ZIXhFn1V83bIam19OwhoVCOAMMWt2Ri98ZFmt-5U_vyWnZWJ1lXXhBHfmgd0Mru87IBr58kcVHKJJyLA57Do-Bz49gG670c_Kmjef2Cv_9IGjZvRS33/s1600/Suet-2+17+11+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" l6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcwpNb4K2imyfW__f8Tmi0a0W97ZIXhFn1V83bIam19OwhoVCOAMMWt2Ri98ZFmt-5U_vyWnZWJ1lXXhBHfmgd0Mru87IBr58kcVHKJJyLA57Do-Bz49gG670c_Kmjef2Cv_9IGjZvRS33/s320/Suet-2+17+11+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Make suet and reap the rewards! Around 20 different species will regularly feed upon suet, so make some and enjoy the beauty that our wild feathered neighbors bring. This recipe is from Martha Sargeant, who, along with her husband Bob, founded the Hummer/Bird Study Group. <br />
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<strong>Martha's Super Suet</strong><br />
<ul><li>1 cup peanut butter</li>
<li>2 cups quick cook oats</li>
<li>2 cups cornmeal</li>
<li>1 cup lard (or vegetable shortening)</li>
<li>1 cup white flour</li>
<li>1/3 cup sugar</li>
</ul><br />
<div> </div>Melt peanut butter & lard over low heat in a large pot. Whisk in remaining ingredients, stir until well incorporated. Dried fruits can be added at this point as well--raisins, cranberries, blueberries or a mix. Place into a container and freeze (we like using commercial suet containers as they are the perfect size for most suet cages), or allow to cool and spoon into a gallon ziploc & seal. Once malleable, roll to 1 inch thickness with a rolling pin & freeze. Stored this way, the suet can be cut into shape & size or your choice. <br />
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<div> </div>Bon appetite, birds!Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-905068668196474852011-01-01T14:15:00.000-06:002011-01-01T14:15:14.415-06:00Meet an AWC Volunteer: Michael White<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivrioL44snHRrY4RA-P5jWnkqpV-jcuX5Cx-Ijr99_sHZeDBEWVheHz_3Th1CzX60myfsGFRM7mrfeFkpuc83c11eVeWMumvLbUDsMyO7sokwINtueajI4g6b14_0CWJarIKSspiFa-maG/s1600/MichaelSnake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivrioL44snHRrY4RA-P5jWnkqpV-jcuX5Cx-Ijr99_sHZeDBEWVheHz_3Th1CzX60myfsGFRM7mrfeFkpuc83c11eVeWMumvLbUDsMyO7sokwINtueajI4g6b14_0CWJarIKSspiFa-maG/s320/MichaelSnake.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AWC volunteer Michael White introducing <br />
a young visitor to The Colonel, a Corn Snake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>We are so fortunate to have Michael White as one of the <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Home%20Page">Alabama Wildlife Center</a>'s dedicated <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Volunteer%20Overview">animal care volunteers</a>. He came on board with us in the fall of 2009 and has since become a much relied upon volunteer. Michael’s warm personality and obvious love of animals has endeared him to everyone he works with. <br />
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Hard working and caring, he is one of few committed to the weekly care of our resident snakes, making sure The Colonel and Scarlet do not get overlooked in the business of regular clinic activities. <br />
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When four little orphaned ducklings arrived separately this summer, Michael went beyond the call of duty with them—from feeding and spending much needed cuddle time with them (so they didn’t suffer from loneliness) to actually getting in our duck pond with them to encourage them to swim! <br />
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Always eager to learn more about wildlife rehabilitation, Michael has recently begun training as a Shift Supervisor. We look forward offering more and more learning opportunities to Michael and feel so lucky to have him as one of our team members. <br />
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Michael is also a multi-talented volunteer. In addition to all his animal care efforts, he also takes photos for us and even baked cookies to sell at our recent <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Craft%20and%20Bake%20Sale">Craft & Bake Sale</a>!<br />
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Thanks, Michael, for all your hard work and for bringing many smiles to our faces!Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-83162701104309397582010-11-30T08:54:00.001-06:002010-11-30T13:55:50.139-06:00Meet an AWC Volunteer: Scottie Jackson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqi680H3Vj6WuR3XRGsABcexsEgWUb9hfwoo30mM4X_Dy3sYgG9VTUtCxGlVaGJ2Q_F00oGzEfmLrmzl3DNda9IMpsYiWeczr2D8ecv-nglIWRYZPEyD3yFBgks9PVqjIsJ5zK9rTP82V-/s1600/_DSC5879-ScottieJackson.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqi680H3Vj6WuR3XRGsABcexsEgWUb9hfwoo30mM4X_Dy3sYgG9VTUtCxGlVaGJ2Q_F00oGzEfmLrmzl3DNda9IMpsYiWeczr2D8ecv-nglIWRYZPEyD3yFBgks9PVqjIsJ5zK9rTP82V-/s320/_DSC5879-ScottieJackson.JPG" width="207" /></a></div>Scottie began her volunteer career at the <a href="http://www.awrc.org/">Alabama Wildlife Center</a> after checking out a <a href="http://www.bwcitypaper.com/">Black & White</a> article with a list of places to volunteer free time. As a biology student at Samford intent on veterinary school, AWC fit into her schedule well and she spent at least one or two days a week volunteering a shift or even an entire day. <br />
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Scottie has expanded her interests to include anything she could do to help wildlife. Volunteering here has also influenced her career focus. Now as a graduate student in Samford’s Environmental Management Program, Scottie has plans to help wildlife and the environment. Scottie currently works with Environmental Education and Birds of Prey at the <a href="http://www.aces.edu/4hcenter/">Alabama 4-H Center</a>.<br />
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Scottie has become an invaluable volunteer. Not once but twice, Scottie served AWC during Baby Songbird season as a full-time Intern. After a spring/summer of constantly satiating open mouths, she returned as a seasoned veteran for a second summer and assisted the program by helping not only to feed the babies but also helped with songbird medical care, enclosure habitating, release preparation and planning, natural history research and training. <br />
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A volunteer with many hats, Scottie assists with not only animal care as a Clinical Technician every Sunday, but also with a variety of other tasks. Up to any challenge an injured raptor presents, she has spent many hours on the road rescuing and transporting injured birds. She is also a trained member of our warehouse rescue team and our reunite team for both songbirds and raptors. In addition to rescue, Scottie also helps recovered patients return to their homes or to find a new one at her home, which happens to be located in a bird sanctuary. Scottie volunteers at our special events and assists with pretty much anything needed whenever her school schedule allows. Bright and cheerful, she helps every month with new volunteer orientation. As one of the newest members of the <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Education%20Birds">Education Bird Program</a>, you can find Scottie volunteering on Mondays with Natchez, Coosa or Ireland. <br />
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Thank you Scottie for all your hard work and dedication!Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-44985583121409581282010-09-30T20:30:00.000-05:002010-09-30T20:30:02.031-05:00Meet an AWC Volunteer: Tamara Bahlke<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihSe2bp7q4PtXihVT-BP7K8qdrb3hzPuaw5Ex8wtvhDRMfPg-rDgU3nl4GapsBR2Ps0yaL7ZrxNHQ8cIwO6-SaNc24k6ssVdZpTS0UwOpWtsPLjDWtTjfPhkmiHE5eXk5_almIdoMX6n9E/s1600/Tamara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihSe2bp7q4PtXihVT-BP7K8qdrb3hzPuaw5Ex8wtvhDRMfPg-rDgU3nl4GapsBR2Ps0yaL7ZrxNHQ8cIwO6-SaNc24k6ssVdZpTS0UwOpWtsPLjDWtTjfPhkmiHE5eXk5_almIdoMX6n9E/s1600/Tamara.jpg" /></a></div>In addition to the many extra shifts accumulated over the years, Tamara has been a loyal Sunday volunteer for the past 5 years, just recently celebrating her anniversary this September. <br />
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Specializing in Eastern Cottontail Rabbits, Tamara has fostered hundreds of baby rabbits, first for AWC and now for our friends at Wild Mammal Care of Alabama. <br />
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Tamara was also a dedicated caretaker for our educational display animals (Bob Kitty the bobcat, and Foxy and Joe the grey foxes) before they were transferred to excellent facilities. <br />
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Tamara now enjoys the comfort of sorting mealworms and sexing rodents during her regular Sunday shift in addition to helping us do pretty much anything that needs doing. As a trained clinical assistant, Tamara has even filled in on occasional as a Shift Supervisor and worked many other shifts throughtout our busy baby season. Thank you so very much, Tamara - your hard work and dedication are greatly appreciated!<br />
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<strong><em>Our hearfelt thanks to everyone that volunteers in support of the Alabama Wildlife Center. You are heroes every day.</em></strong><br />
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Want to become an AWC volunteer? Our next new volunteer orientations are scheduled for Sunday, October 3 and Sunday, November 7 from 1-3:30pm. Schedule online at <a href="http://www.awrc.org/">http://www.awrc.org/</a> or arrive early to register in person. $10 fee if you are not an AWC member.Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-25693227620133149152010-09-12T11:36:00.000-05:002010-09-12T11:36:56.308-05:00One Tough Bird!On Wednesday of this week, AWC received a message on our Wildlife Help Line concerning a hawk trapped in a warehouse in Birmingham. Before we could assemble a rescue team, a rep from the warehouse called to let us know the hawk had flown out of the building. <br />
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Initially so relieved that the bird was free and no rescue team was needed, our relief turned to concern as we learned the hawk had flown through a window to gain her freedom. We just knew the bird was somewhere hurt, possibly dying from the impact, but there was nothing we could do--she had flown away. <br />
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About an hour later our doorbell chimed, alerting us that we had a new patient needing care. AWC staffer Lee McDonald answered the bell and met with an employee from the warehouse. They had found the Cooper's Hawk on the roof of their facility lying on her back and obviously in dire need of help. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWD2VNeQqeV7ABI8MaKZfl1JnotxsGr8cvAihUTs7fy4VNOVzfnvnyaOWOvAGhPBZHveuKVFhdCocVWwizZefReahnib1aATQeK5dzefnG6_14cp7cxKb2n74aUhWcTqtaQqUQR-HJM_Va/s1600/AWC91010+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWD2VNeQqeV7ABI8MaKZfl1JnotxsGr8cvAihUTs7fy4VNOVzfnvnyaOWOvAGhPBZHveuKVFhdCocVWwizZefReahnib1aATQeK5dzefnG6_14cp7cxKb2n74aUhWcTqtaQqUQR-HJM_Va/s320/AWC91010+008.JPG" /></a></div>Our initial exam revealed that she was suffering from head and possibly spinal trauma from the crash through the window, unable to stand but thankfully with movement detected in the legs. It was also found that she was in great shape--a successful hunter that judging from her weight, had not missed too many meals! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTHVU8NQp3SunThTu1k0GLvVn2UYLhPy9bk3mzA91PegWXII_oG1S-1drT1kot-Jf__J1A8dhk4MQEHtbyXCslKbtEClvGAvsbTC5Uie3MEf05qxrbA5aCfJPhL6_pRhEJuHLNbY2jX0ar/s1600/AWC91010+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTHVU8NQp3SunThTu1k0GLvVn2UYLhPy9bk3mzA91PegWXII_oG1S-1drT1kot-Jf__J1A8dhk4MQEHtbyXCslKbtEClvGAvsbTC5Uie3MEf05qxrbA5aCfJPhL6_pRhEJuHLNbY2jX0ar/s320/AWC91010+010.JPG" /></a></div>Steroids were administered to reduce the inflammation from the impact, fluids were given and she was placed in a box with a supportive "donut" to alleviate the weight from her legs. By the next day, she was beginning to use her legs more and by Friday the beautiful young hawk was standing on her own! Now also eating on her own and no longer in need of hydrating fluids, the Cooper's Hawk is making a steady recovery, though still listed in guarded condition. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2fktdVd1FOxkZKydHMReaG89GcH6CxMrORXGavK1awa5UZ5OWz3LAsiUqLJEmyxzRJlzAvSy5FjOS_yKRdwXEzASLEGMlVQGBD30IIs39GN05m-q2-i8hqq1pRqCZGKABaw6O67y2PQY/s1600/AWC91010+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2fktdVd1FOxkZKydHMReaG89GcH6CxMrORXGavK1awa5UZ5OWz3LAsiUqLJEmyxzRJlzAvSy5FjOS_yKRdwXEzASLEGMlVQGBD30IIs39GN05m-q2-i8hqq1pRqCZGKABaw6O67y2PQY/s320/AWC91010+009.JPG" /></a></div>Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-89110675701090680192010-08-31T16:16:00.001-05:002010-08-31T16:19:24.132-05:00Meet an AWC Volunteer: Holly Whitmire<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPxC7STgrHxlZV9H0tyK8TbvMMMqUaz6AGgBSw6znveDiHGPYA32Ro_wF98WVWMhxi8aDdtoEUqZc9iMVMUw5HU-uWKdiGSyaVaRVOqYsG80vgTp9TFcMy8ANAS9d5y1AOxRtZgRlD6kVM/s1600/HollyW.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPxC7STgrHxlZV9H0tyK8TbvMMMqUaz6AGgBSw6znveDiHGPYA32Ro_wF98WVWMhxi8aDdtoEUqZc9iMVMUw5HU-uWKdiGSyaVaRVOqYsG80vgTp9TFcMy8ANAS9d5y1AOxRtZgRlD6kVM/s200/HollyW.JPG" width="141" /></a></div>There are certain volunteers that we rely on so much, we have named the day they volunteer in their honor. Thursdays have become “Holly days,” because that is when we are so fortunate to have Holly Whitmire amongst us. Holly has been a volunteer with AWC since 1999 (wow!) and is truly a jack of all trades. A small sampling of her volunteer work includes grocery shopping, cleaning rodent bins, taking care of our resident snakes, handling raptors, feeding baby songbirds and freeing hawks trapped in warehouses. In fact, she is one of two volunteers we can count on time and again to get trapped birds out. When asked what keeps her coming back every week, Holly said “being with others of like mind,” and “seeing the birds thrive” is what motivates her. We are so thankful to Holly for her many years of dedicated service. On behalf of our patients, our heartfelt thanks go to you Holly!<br />
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You can become an AWC volunteer! New volunteer orientations are scheduled for the first Sunday of most months from 1-4pm. The next dates are: September 5, October 3 & November 7, 2010. <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Volunteer_Registration.htm" target="_blank">Register online via our website</a> or arrive a few minutes early to complete your registration in person. One-of-a-kind experiences await you!Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-83014020114036769902010-08-17T15:05:00.000-05:002010-08-17T15:05:27.925-05:00My Experience at the Oiled Avian Center in Theodore, AL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGHBu62OU2s1EScvkalDKPfA-x0_1OUbwpZmz8afcNw8e7jS95ovUSsd7ZR2Kj1Std4vooPuW_eaagPccClTdZGDPP2BrzU_4lTAVAMMK-Z3zy3y-35FBC09-hed17fUbZ1sfCQNpYnn0L/s1600/NorthernGannets.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGHBu62OU2s1EScvkalDKPfA-x0_1OUbwpZmz8afcNw8e7jS95ovUSsd7ZR2Kj1Std4vooPuW_eaagPccClTdZGDPP2BrzU_4lTAVAMMK-Z3zy3y-35FBC09-hed17fUbZ1sfCQNpYnn0L/s200/NorthernGannets.JPG" width="145" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: right;"><em><span style="font-size: xx-small;">by Sandra Allinson, Alabama Wildlife Center's Director of Education</span></em></div>Located in central Alabama, it is not very often rehabilitators at the <a href="http://www.awrc.org/index.html" target="_blank">Alabama Wildlife Center</a><br />
have occasion to help coastal birds such as <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Royal_Tern/id" target="_blank">Royal Terns</a>, <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Northern_Gannet/id" target="_blank">Northern Gannets</a> or <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Brown_Pelican/id" target="_blank">Brown Pelicans</a>. Recently I spent 5 days in Theodore, Alabama at the oiled avian center working almost exclusively with Northern Gannets. Until then I knew very little about these birds. In fact, I had never even seen a Northern Gannet other than in photographs. They are beautiful birds with voracious appetites for fish. Adults are mostly white with contrasting black primaries and primary coverts. Their gray-blue eye rings and bills are finely outlined in black against buffy-yellow plumage on their heads and napes.<br />
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Intrigued by their beauty and raucous behavior, I spent my evenings in the hotel room reading about this species and thought you all would enjoy a little info on how the species hunts. On average, a Northern Gannet weighs in at over 6 pounds and has a wingspan of 72 inches--that's a large bird. Northern Gannets have long, thick, serrated bills (for which I now have a great respect) which make them very adept at catching fish. They are skilled hunters and practice a foraging strategy referred to as "plunge-diving." Gannets locate shoals of fish during flight at heights of up to 130 feet. Then, they tip into a vertical or slightly-angled dive, extending wings backward and close to the body just before penetrating the water's surface at speeds 62 miles or more an hour! AMAZING!<br />
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The Gulf Coast oil spill has brought together folks from all walks of life in a very unique way. Rehabilitators at the Alabama Wildlife Center (both staff and experienced volunteers) are honored to have participated in efforts to aide coastal birds. We have had a rare opportunity to work side-by-side with wildlife rehabilitators from across North America, veterinarians, veterinary students, U. S. Fish and Wildlife biologists and people whose daily lives depend on the health of the Gulf Coast. The long-term impact of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill to our precious wildlife and coastal communities may not be completely known for many years. The experience and knowledge we gained, and the professional relationships we developed, will continue to benefit Alabama's native birds for many, many years.<br />
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Thanks to all of you who are making a difference by supporting Alabama's wildlife.<br />
<a href="http://www.awrc.org/make_a_donation.htm" target="_blank"> Donate today!</a>Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-58725132970573905252010-08-02T17:04:00.001-05:002010-08-02T17:04:46.504-05:00Meet an AWC Volunteer: Erin Johnson<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBdOxx5UsSyvx_Ji634mqU2DOaqjuogUn2ahmcHiqCGuJCBqqM2uKTO5h4HhNuVEuA5FPh75OwTDPQqxi-OGlbDPQiDMg2wlPlD9Hsxc1zairfSFA9uUvakCpY95n8sAskP-0UuyhgCaA/s1600/coosa-erin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBdOxx5UsSyvx_Ji634mqU2DOaqjuogUn2ahmcHiqCGuJCBqqM2uKTO5h4HhNuVEuA5FPh75OwTDPQqxi-OGlbDPQiDMg2wlPlD9Hsxc1zairfSFA9uUvakCpY95n8sAskP-0UuyhgCaA/s320/coosa-erin.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Erin with Coosa, the Barred Owl</em></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Erin Johnson is such a great volunteer that we knew we had to have her on staff. In the summer of 2009, Erin was hired as Songbird Intern and anyone that worked with her can attest to the fact that she did an amazing job. <br />
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Continuing on as a volunteer after her internship ended, Erin has become MUCH relied upon in the clinic. During her shift (and she does two a week, by the way!) Erin moves deftly from Bird Nursery to Raptor Handler to Help/Info Line to Aviaries to Raptor Wing to Tree Top Nature Trail -- WHEW! She basically does it all and does a great job. Erin has also helped out with many tours, helping us educate the public about our native birds. She is also a member of the Education Bird Team. <br />
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Her great attitude and sense of humor don’t hurt either and we always look forward to an “Erin shift.” Thank you, Erin, for all your hard work. You’ve made such a difference around AWC!<br />
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How will <em>you</em> help Alabama's wildlife? New volunteer orientations held the 1st Sunday of each month form 1-4pm. More info at <a href="http://www.awrc.org/">http://www.awrc.org/</a>.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">by Lee McDonald, AWC Wildlife Rehabilitator</span></em></div>Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-71229890750407262602010-08-02T17:04:00.000-05:002010-08-02T17:04:28.669-05:00Meet an AWC Volunteer: David Gray<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVkzl4-xZf5TIekkrpw5DoqBPAEDxuZc9oCR_DG-3atTHHC8CjbHdszyqzHccESpxao-3XxdVAyDm5Px1qschrzD_I-ubalQv5VYdFF1AyWlfav3gsg6GYTjFzLXBrSOgfFwi0Ykz31Mh/s1600/DavidGray.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVkzl4-xZf5TIekkrpw5DoqBPAEDxuZc9oCR_DG-3atTHHC8CjbHdszyqzHccESpxao-3XxdVAyDm5Px1qschrzD_I-ubalQv5VYdFF1AyWlfav3gsg6GYTjFzLXBrSOgfFwi0Ykz31Mh/s320/DavidGray.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Volunteer David Gray with baby Chimney Swifts</em></td></tr>
</tbody></table>David Gray began volunteering this year at AWC in the throes of baby bird season. David got a few shifts under his belt before attending orientation (in fact he is here for no less than three shifts a week!) and has learned the ropes the best way—by fully submersing himself into the many demands of this unbelievably busy time of year. <br />
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David arrives with an unfaltering willingness to pitch in wherever needed, often taking on labor-intensive jobs such as cleaning out and resetting aviaries, disinfecting shift cages, convalescent rooms and cleaning the rodent bins. Without prompting he’s off to Treetop Nature Trail at the start of the shift to feed and check in on our Tree Top residents and he’s always willing to make a run to the vet for us for whatever is needed to be dropped off or picked up. <br />
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The icing on the cake is David’s great attitude and cheery nature. Working hard and always with a smile, David’s the kind of volunteer we are so thankful to have at AWC. Thanks for ALL your hard work this summer, David!<br />
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How will you help Alabama's wildlife? New volunteer orientations held the 1st Sunday of each month form 1-4pm. More info at <a href="http://www.awrc.org/">http://www.awrc.org/</a>.<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">by Lee McDonald, AWC Wildlife Rehabilitator</span></em></div>Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-26853671501103368742010-08-01T22:06:00.001-05:002010-08-01T22:07:15.213-05:00Crafts for a Cause!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqES7hBzsphKipb_SQHIvqgWoCOXDTZE7B2YRJUR5LvVKvbQaUx5Ah3EDKNKUzA6YXYr0SQp236eA_N1DT4quRci4o_dTBLj5OXDdavO8Io7zhTMAERQuO2WfX_h6l_F_X8HNQTflUAc54/s1600/Leah-Sandra-Ireland1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqES7hBzsphKipb_SQHIvqgWoCOXDTZE7B2YRJUR5LvVKvbQaUx5Ah3EDKNKUzA6YXYr0SQp236eA_N1DT4quRci4o_dTBLj5OXDdavO8Io7zhTMAERQuO2WfX_h6l_F_X8HNQTflUAc54/s320/Leah-Sandra-Ireland1.jpg" /></a></div>Most Saturday mornings Leah Dodd of Irondale is at the Red Cat Coffee House selling rings she’s made from beads and recycled wire. Unable to directly help the wildlife affected by the Gulf oil spill, she donates the proceeds of the jewelry sales to the Alabama Wildlife Center who is helping at the Oiled Avian Center in Theodore, AL. <br />
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Pictured above, Leah is meeting Alabama Wildlife Center ambassador Ireland the Red-tailed Hawk, held by AWC Education Director Sandra Allinson.<br />
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To see Leah's jewelry, visit: <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.leahdodd.etsy.com" target="_blank">http://www.blogger.com/www.leahdodd.etsy.com</a>. <br />
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How will <em>you </em>use your skills and talents to help wildlife?<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">by Janet Byars, AWC Administrative Assistant</span></em> </div><div style="text-align: right;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo credit: Mary Stockard, artist & AWC volunteer</span></em></div>Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-46731677641762660142010-07-20T05:36:00.002-05:002010-07-20T05:37:49.996-05:00Day 2: AWC at the Theodore, AL Oiled Avian Treatment Center<em>AWC's Oiled Wildlife Paraprofessionals team member Lynn Brown reports on Day 2 of our ongoing rotation at the oiled avian treatment center in Theodore, AL. </em><br />
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Lynn spent Monday tubing birds, conducting exams and running bloodwork. She also began to learn the facility's intake and evaluation process. Several Gulls and <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/forsters_tern/id" target="_blank">Forster's Terns</a> arrived today. There are about 10 rehabbers on site and a small construction crew that does nothing but build or reconfigure holding pens, pools, etc. to suit whatever the specific needs are for the species currently in-house for treatment.<br />
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Another long, hard 12-hour day, but Lynn is learning much and enjoying being hands on with the response effort. She said she is taking lots of notes on ideas to bring back home to the rehab clinic at AWC. Thanks for your efforts and for being there to represent AWC, Lynn!Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-23789433638160340112010-07-18T22:29:00.003-05:002010-07-19T09:27:05.246-05:00Update from the Oiled Bird Facility in Theodore, AL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjktifv1VxCawTirJ4UumcgMaPDnlvBNJpapSgEnttmrR6hWU0vLDXFdbL83bqsDvknHCJ8dQhyphenhyphenU_VCsMXq5cO_Jgn1F34LXlYUjc98UnIuo0mw0B6P-rID1nHaCC3FhQAq01SOF7WxS-Xn/s1600/GrtBluHeronBath.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjktifv1VxCawTirJ4UumcgMaPDnlvBNJpapSgEnttmrR6hWU0vLDXFdbL83bqsDvknHCJ8dQhyphenhyphenU_VCsMXq5cO_Jgn1F34LXlYUjc98UnIuo0mw0B6P-rID1nHaCC3FhQAq01SOF7WxS-Xn/s200/GrtBluHeronBath.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>The <a href="http://www.awrc.org/" target="_blank">Alabama Wildlife Center</a> is pleased to announce that our AWC Oiled Wildlife Paraprofessionals team began an ongoing rotation today at the oiled wildlife rehab facility in Theodore, AL. The facility is managed by the two agencies contracted by BP to manage the oiled wildlife response – <a href="http://www.blogger.com/Alabama%20Wildlife%20Center" target="_blank">Tri-State</a> & <a href="http://ibrrc.org/" target="_blank">IBRRC</a>. AWC will have a representative at the facility for as long as we can and for as long as we are needed.<br />
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We just heard from Lynn Brown, an AWC volunteer and member of the AWC oiled wildlife paraprofessional team. She arrived in Theodore, AL Saturday night. The staff starts their day at 7:00AM and they work until they are done. Today was a twelve-hour day.<br />
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Lynn reports that the facility currently has about 30 birds in their care - mostly <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Northern_Gannet/id" target="_blank">Northern Gannets</a>, and a few <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Common_Tern/id" target="_blank">Terns</a>, Gulls and a <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Common_Loon/id" target="_blank">Loon</a>. She says that most of the birds are arriving without oiled feathers, but instead have internal damage due to the ingestion of toxic substances like dispersants or fish and other food sources that have ingested or been coated in oil. <br />
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Most of Lynn’s day was spent caring for numerous Northern Gannets – feeding them, cleaning their enclosures and pools, moving them for treatment. She also spent a little time doing dishes. As with caring for children, most of the care of birds in rehab is spent in cleaning, food preparation, feeding, and cleaning up again.<br />
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An <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/osprey/id" target="_blank">Osprey</a> (one of the largest raptors in North America) arrived for treatment in a travel crate. The staff on hand, who are used to dealing primarily with water birds, were apprehensive about opening the crate and handling the bird of prey. Lynn, who has had quite a bit of experience handling raptors at AWC, quickly stepped forward and handled the bird. Go, Lynn! <br />
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Lynn shared that there was quite a bit of discussion about a very large oil slick growing closer to shore. While only time and the tides will tell, folks down there seemed quite concerned that the number of oil-affected birds arriving for treatment might soon be jumping much higher. <br />
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Our deep gratitude goes out to Lynn for her hard work and for being there to represent AWC and all the supporters that wish they could be there to help. We'll look forward to more info tomorrow!<br />
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If you’d like to support AWC’s efforts to help with the oiled wildlife response and to better prepare and increase our capacity to respond to all future wildlife emergencies in Alabama, you can <br />
<a href="http://www.awrc.org/make_a_donation.htm" target="_blank">make a donation to our Wildlife Emergency Fund</a>.Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-11657467795460184052010-07-01T10:49:00.002-05:002010-07-01T11:30:14.447-05:00First Oil Spill-Related Bird Arrives<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp-wEy-qQ8Y-KOGRtXzCEvtYkbGkBg_5m_BBQ5lPNjM-UZBt9L2_h5Zhcx2OPqzcWe56vGR-ZX3PUnI_d8S7NpnfnZs7qjqIEmmxaKRXIqHv8C6LmNk3jI39adPoKRcKHhjkAYwvKsEBli/s1600/065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" rw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp-wEy-qQ8Y-KOGRtXzCEvtYkbGkBg_5m_BBQ5lPNjM-UZBt9L2_h5Zhcx2OPqzcWe56vGR-ZX3PUnI_d8S7NpnfnZs7qjqIEmmxaKRXIqHv8C6LmNk3jI39adPoKRcKHhjkAYwvKsEBli/s200/065.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>A baby <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Black-bellied_Whistling-Duck/id" target="_blank">Black-bellied Whistling-Duck</a> was discovered trapped in a boom storage area on Tuesday, June 29 at 9:40AM in Pascagoula, Mississippi near the Gulf Coast. Separated from its parents and far from being developed enough to survive on its own, it was rescued by <a href="http://www.fws.gov/" target="_blank">U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services</a> and transported to the oiled wildlife rehabilitation facility in Theodore, Alabama. Because that facility is under contract with BP to focus solely on cleaning and rehabilitating oiled wildlife, they asked the <a href="http://www.awrc.org/index.html" target="_blank">Alabama Wildlife Center</a> to take charge of the orphaned duckling.<br />
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AWC’s Raptor Coordinator, Jessie Griswold, just happened to be spending Monday and Tuesday – her days off – volunteering at the facility in Theodore, she transported the duckling to AWC’s Pelham facility in Oak Mountain State Park on Tuesday night. <br />
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Upon its arrival at AWC a complete examination was performed. The duckling weighed in at 22 grams and is estimated to be three to five days old. No injuries were detected. The orphan was clearly scared, dehydrated and hungry. It was hand fed, hydrated and given some swim time in a blue plastic dish pan “pool,” which considerably perked up the little baby. After being returned to its incubator it immediately hid under the “Mommy,” a feather duster provided for ducklings to give them a sense of comfort and security. <br />
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Its condition today is described as stable but guarded. AWC will care for and raise the baby duck until it is able to survive on its own in the wild.<br />
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AWC Executive Director Beth Bloomfield says, “This is the first time AWC has cared for a Black-bellied Whistling-Duck. It’s a species that’s only found in southwestern states and the southernmost parts of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida. The duckling will be with us for about two months, after which we will find a suitable release site far from areas impacted by the oil spill.”<br />
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Community members are needed to help with the care and feeding of this orphaned duckling. <a href="http://www.awrc.org/make_a_donation.htm" target="_blank">Financial donations can be made online at awrc.org</a>, and baby duck food donations of millet sprays, wild bird seed, poultry feed, small mealworms and crickets, as well as green leaf lettuce (please, no iceberg or romaine) can be delivered to AWC at 100 Terrace Drive in Pelham, located in Oak Mountain State Park seven days a week from 9:00AM to 5:00PM. A full <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Baby%20Bird%20Wish%20List.pdf" target="_blank">wish list of items needed for baby bird care</a> can also be downloaded on the organization’s website.Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-50135160951178054912010-06-11T13:05:00.003-05:002010-06-14T09:24:18.766-05:0010 Ways to Help Oiled Wildlife Now<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6MylAbZHEKVut7soP0PNe-wWK9oaVuHY1LUKSSJRmkEv3XwVN7JlXeqvS5qAFtdGykr0SL2xdBDY_YZrwLKlokWXO5FAbKbYCaOuLeDscaBtJlVsrLJApBclwfyaNfdFzEMGQzOS7HqCb/s1600/top-ten-gold.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6MylAbZHEKVut7soP0PNe-wWK9oaVuHY1LUKSSJRmkEv3XwVN7JlXeqvS5qAFtdGykr0SL2xdBDY_YZrwLKlokWXO5FAbKbYCaOuLeDscaBtJlVsrLJApBclwfyaNfdFzEMGQzOS7HqCb/s200/top-ten-gold.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
1. Give us your contact info. Email <a href="mailto:wildlife@awrc.org">wildlife@awrc.org</a> with your name and “Help with Gulf Coast” in the subject line. We will contact you only once there are specific opportunities to help in Alabama.<br />
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2. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alabama-Wildlife-Center/112543375437502?v=app_2392950137&ref=ts#!/pages/Alabama-Wildlife-Center/112543375437502?v=wall&ref=ts">Find us on Facebook</a> for news and information updates. Keep informed and spread the word to friends and family on how they can help.<br />
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3. Become an Animal Care volunteer. Our next scheduled monthly orientations are both on Sundays – July 11 and August 1 from 1-4pm. You can <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Volunteer_Registration.htm" target="_blank">register online</a> or simply arrive a bit early to complete registration. There is a $10 fee if you are not an AWC member. If you want to get started even sooner, email us at <a href="mailto:wildlife@awrc.org">wildlife@awrc.org</a> or call 205-663-7930, Ext. 5. More volunteers here at our headquarters during our busiest time of year will mean that when the AWC Oiled Wildlife Rehabilitation Team is called to the Coast, there will be enough help at headquarters for them to go.<br />
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4. Donate to AWC so that we can help where help is most needed. <a href="http://www.awrc.org/make_a_donation.htm" target="_blank">You can donate online at awrc.org</a> or send a check payable to AWC to 100 Terrace Dr, Pelham AL 35124. You can even designate your donation for the AWC Wildlife Emergency Fund to help with our expenses to prepare for and respond to this and future Alabama wildlife emergencies.<br />
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5. Hold your own fundraising event to support the Alabama Wildlife Center or other agencies involved with assisting wildlife affected by the oil spill. Just a few ideas for fundraisers include:<br />
<ul><li><strong></strong> <strong>Email -</strong> Send a short, heartfelt email to your friends and family, asking them to support AWC and explaining why you’re a fan of ours.</li>
<li><strong>Basics -</strong> There’s a reason why bake sales and charity dinner parties have been going strong for decades – they’re effective! Evite even offers online invitations for fundraisers and bake sales.</li>
<li><strong>Celebrations -</strong> In lieu of a gift for your birthday, graduation, wedding, or anniversary, ask family or friends to make a donation.</l type="a"> </li>
<li><strong>Benefits -</strong> Are you friendly with a local restaurant or bar owner? How about a local band? Why not suggest a night in which all profits come to AWC?</l type="a"> </li>
<li><strong>Clean Out Your Attic/Garage/Closet -</strong> Sell your unneeded items and donate the proceeds for a good cause through <a href="http://givingworks.ebay.com/">eBay's charitable auction site</a> (AWC is a registered charity there!) Or sell your stuff on Craigslist or hold a yard sale and send us a check.</l type="a"> </li>
<li><strong>Business Promo -</strong> If you own your own business, why not run a promotion donating a portion of proceeds to us?</l type="a"> </li>
<li><l type="a"><strong>Get the Kids Involved</strong> <strong>- </strong>Your children may want to hold their own fundraiser – a good old-fashioned lemonade stand, helping neighbors by mowing lawns or washing dogs, etc. </li>
<li></l type="a"><l type="a">Don’t feel obligated to choose one of these options. Some of the most wonderful fundraisers are ideas that we never could have come up with ourselves!</l type="a"> </li>
</ul> 6. If you encounter oiled wildlife on the Gulf Coast, call the Oiled Wildlife Hotline at 1-866-557-1401.<br />
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7. If you have a flexible schedule and think you might like to head to the Gulf Coast to assist if needed, you should contact one of the organizations listed below to assist in coordinated environmental clean-up activities, which assists our wildlife. (Only trained and qualified oiled wildlife paraprofessionals can help clean animals). Contact information should include Name, Address, Phone, and Email. Response time may be slow as they are being inundated.<br />
<ul><li>Alabama Coastal Foundation 251-990-6002 <a href="mailto:Info@joinacf.org">Info@joinacf.org</a> </li>
<li>Mobile Bay Nat’l Estuary Prg 251-431-6409 <a href="mailto:mbnep@mobilebaynep.com">mbnep@mobilebaynep.com</a> </li>
<li>Mobile Baykeeper 251-433-4229 <a href="mailto:callaway@mobilebaykeeper.org">callaway@mobilebaykeeper.org</a> </li>
</ul>8. Many employers offer matching funds programs that will turn $20 into $40 or $500 into $1,000. Inquire with your HR department to see about getting your gift matched. <br />
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9. At this time, the Unified Command for the response efforts on the Gulf Coast is NOT asking for donations of supplies. Please do not spend your resources collecting Dawn dish detergent, Pepto Bismol, latex gloves, or other items you might think are needed. BP is paying for supplies at the coastal rehab facilities. Tell your friends!<br />
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10. <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Baby%20Bird%20Wish%20List.pdf">Donate needed wish list items</a> to AWC so that our limited operating funds are less depleted and we'll have more to help at the Gulf Coast when we're called. Deliveries can be made 7 days a week from 9am to 5pm. <br />
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Thank you! Still have questions, or suggestions? Contact AWC at <a href="mailto:wildlife@awrc.org">wildlife@awrc.org</a> or call 205-663-7930. <br />
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<ol></ol>Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-63045256269632620892010-06-02T14:43:00.000-05:002010-06-02T14:43:07.717-05:00What to Do if You Encounter Oiled Wildlife<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC4xBcxT-8N5NoagONOqTnggGSBhdfodD7QYZeHzV0TAE2QV6urOBsxe3mnp7W1GQ2hC1Dfgjf-m-xm4CTxV_weznv_XeC_an45x6jQpg39n4bnc5EVBv-KkMKd4JEBSh31bOlIozJ9Nsk/s1600/GrtHrndOwlCloseupBath.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC4xBcxT-8N5NoagONOqTnggGSBhdfodD7QYZeHzV0TAE2QV6urOBsxe3mnp7W1GQ2hC1Dfgjf-m-xm4CTxV_weznv_XeC_an45x6jQpg39n4bnc5EVBv-KkMKd4JEBSh31bOlIozJ9Nsk/s200/GrtHrndOwlCloseupBath.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>As those of you following the situation along the Gulf Coast may already know, <a href="http://www.fws.gov/" target="_blank">U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service</a>, <a href="http://www.tristatebird.org/" target="_blank">Tri-State Bird Rescue and Research</a> and <a href="http://www.ibrrc.org/" target="_blank">International Bird Rescue Research Center</a> are the three agencies working together to lead the efforts to help wildlife affected by the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. The <a href="http://www.awrc.org/index.html" target="_blank">Alabama Wildlife Center</a> supports their dedication and efforts to meet the needs of contaminated wildlife. They are the United State’s leading experts in rehabilitating oiled wildlife.<br />
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We would like to remind everyone of the proper course of action to follow if you encounter oiled wildlife along the Gulf:<br />
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1. <strong>Immediately call the Oiled Wildlife Hotline at 1-866-557-1401</strong> and give the animal's precise location. The hotline representative will then forward the information to the nearest trained personnel to respond. Please be patient as the response time is not immediate.<br />
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2. <strong>Do not attempt to capture or handle the contaminated animal.</strong> Improper handling of oiled wildlife can result in injury to the animal or to you. The defensive behavior of an injured animal can result in injuries to you and/or the animal, and crude oil can be harmful when it comes in contact with human skin. <br />
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3. <strong>Stay away from the animal.</strong> An oiled animal is severely stressed. Loud noises, sudden movements, flash cameras and groups of onlookers will only add to the severe stress the animal is already experiencing. Adding stress to an injured wild animal creates an even more life-threatening situation.<br />
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A contaminated animal has likely ingested some oil, which can damage vital organs and is potentially life-threatening. Oiled wildlife should receive a thorough examination, medical treatment and should be stabilized by an <em><strong>experienced professional</strong></em>. In some cases, stabilization may require several days of intensive care before the wash process can even take place.<br />
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Washing an oiled animal is a very precise procedure and requires an experienced team to be successful. There are many factors to take into consideration prior to, during and after the wash to ensure success with the least amount of stress to the animal. Proper water temperature, dilution of cleaning agent, handling and washing techniques, post-wash care, housing, waterproofing and reconditioning are among the many variables that can make the difference between life and death for oiled wildlife.<br />
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Gulf Coast states are so fortunate to have professional and experienced organizations such as USFWS, Tri-State and IBRRC coordinating efforts to assist oiled wildlife during this unfortunate crisis. When and if additional help is needed, paraprofessionals such as AWC staff and volunteers may be called upon.<br />
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If you would like to help, you can sign up for AWC’s Help with Gulf Coast Oil Spill contact list by sending an email to wildlife@awrc.org with “Help with Gulf Coast” in the subject line.<br />
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You can support AWC’s efforts to assist with wildlife affected by the oil spill and other Alabama wildlife in need by<a href="http://www.awrc.org/make_a_donation.htm" target="_blank">making a donation online today.</a> (<em>The picture above is an oiled Great Horned Owl washed at AWC earlier this year.</em>)Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-48109920874896002732010-05-27T10:26:00.002-05:002010-05-27T10:29:15.277-05:00Gulf Coast Oil Spill Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk63NcNTAGaPcApSDKwChJTg6rlJMYWP9l0-HrLsbD066-H8-2gXTDwNM01LENR2VSil58JEHQzm7NAPxKpkQgxnBUxdsxgVHTvAfzgAnufVjspJ55YgW_rLT0fSvGpdjrqFkHyvLGWfMB/s1600/GrtBluHeronBath.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk63NcNTAGaPcApSDKwChJTg6rlJMYWP9l0-HrLsbD066-H8-2gXTDwNM01LENR2VSil58JEHQzm7NAPxKpkQgxnBUxdsxgVHTvAfzgAnufVjspJ55YgW_rLT0fSvGpdjrqFkHyvLGWfMB/s200/GrtBluHeronBath.JPG" width="200" /></a>As you've probably seen/heard on the news, oil began washing up in Louisiana last week. To date, wildlife officials have counted 440 birds affected by the spill - 393 of which are dead and the rest rescued for cleaning and rehabilitation. Rehabilitation centers have been set up along the Coast in the four states where the spill is expected to hit the most - Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama & Florida. There are plentiful experienced/trained rehabbers and supplies at the ready. AWC remains on standby. </div><br />
We hear your sadness, frustration, and sense of hopelessness at this environmental crisis. We encourage you to turn your energies into action. You can help AWC continue to prepare to respond to the needs of oiled wildlife and all of our ongoing rehabilitation and education efforts in Alabama by <a href="http://www.awrc.org/make_a_donation.htm" target="_blank">donating</a>, <a href="http://www.awrc.org/membership.htm" target="_blank">becoming a member</a>, or <a href="http://www.awrc.org/adopt.htm" target="_blank">adopting an animal</a>. (Photo above is an oiled Great Blue Heron that was washed, rehabilitated and released early this year by AWC.) <br />
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The first two bird Deepwater Horizon spill victims, a Brown Pelican and a Northern Gannet, were successfully treated and released on May 10th. The third, a Green Heron, was treated and released on May 14. <a href="http://emergency.louisiana.gov/Releases/05142010-heron.html" target="_blank">See a video of the release</a>.Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-37414331816693170442010-05-13T17:41:00.001-05:002010-05-13T17:51:14.567-05:00Baby Bird Shower Brings a Downpour of Generosity!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAMaBKv4jGH6HYLqN7Jiy6m-up2g2HMayXZiSrTE89wlDdSca2czkZcEvWTV9AxKVIhomXdwUMF-QR1ksJ3MPQo6iTxBhknt5_OLupx1lkm0VJJLCNMeMXAD4V4Fu7hSYEXqx3gZalHn8h/s1600/BabyBirdCake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAMaBKv4jGH6HYLqN7Jiy6m-up2g2HMayXZiSrTE89wlDdSca2czkZcEvWTV9AxKVIhomXdwUMF-QR1ksJ3MPQo6iTxBhknt5_OLupx1lkm0VJJLCNMeMXAD4V4Fu7hSYEXqx3gZalHn8h/s200/BabyBirdCake.jpg" width="200" wt="true" /></a></div><b>Peanut Butter, Raisins & TP –</b> <i>Not Your Mother’s Baby Shower List</i><br />
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The <a href="http://www.awrc.org/index.html" target="_blank">Alabama Wildlife Center</a> hosted its first annual “Baby Bird Shower” on Saturday, May 8, 2010 from 11:00AM to 3:00PM. The event attracted over two hundred and fifty guests who enjoyed free carrot cake and lemonade, had guided tours of <a href="http://www.awrc.org/tnt.htm" target="_blank">Treetop Nature Trail </a>(elevated boardwalk in the woods where non-releasable raptors are housed), heard wildlife presentations from AWC Director of Education Sandra Allinson accompanied by Coosa the Barred Owl, had guided tours of what goes on in the Baby Bird Nursery and more. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0fOxvMq5a1SUo9YplAhEDPmTvSEFm4P68AL3UvGSFvfEvPA5dAvYy817xzgaEcaoG35qeZqL2GY55YtLCZiCX69qZCP0CkCATycKVfRvOAhwgBgDcKSjYPdtlu5BmI2WDOiSp79oWuk-C/s1600/Baby+Shower+2010+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0fOxvMq5a1SUo9YplAhEDPmTvSEFm4P68AL3UvGSFvfEvPA5dAvYy817xzgaEcaoG35qeZqL2GY55YtLCZiCX69qZCP0CkCATycKVfRvOAhwgBgDcKSjYPdtlu5BmI2WDOiSp79oWuk-C/s200/Baby+Shower+2010+002.jpg" width="200" wt="true" /></a></div>More than one hundred young visitors played the Feed the Bird bean bag toss game (created by artist and AWC volunteer Mary Stockard), decorated a bird ornament and planted their own sunflower seeds to take home and grow their own bird food. <br />
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Between April and September each year, AWC receives up to nine hundred injured and orphaned baby birds. The purpose of the event was to educate the community on the needs of native baby birds and encourage the public to do what they can to help.<br />
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And help they did. Not only did AWC receive almost $1,000 in donations and sales of promotional items and handmade treats, guests brought gifts from the AWC wish list for the baby birds. The following is just a taste of the shower gifts received:<br />
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* 15 baskets of fresh berries<br />
* 25 pounds of raisins <br />
* 38 pounds of Evo and Iams kitten food <br />
* 70 pounds of creamy peanut butter <br />
* 84 pounds of black oil sunflower seeds <br />
* 106 rolls of paper towels <br />
* 481 pounds of wild bird feed (includes 300 pounds donated by <a href="http://www.petsuppliesplus.com/" target="_blank">Pet Supplies Plus</a> in Pelham) <br />
* 962 rolls of unscented toilet paper <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9hesUpaslQslNavbLol3TShtkJU8qRmgemDireCaF_SRmGToxHFr8LMVQ_I-sSaaMRdAYH_0gnPabLgJsOuWdtAB15QJQkDuWyb2-4eTWWJz9JOXHGBtGSMX3KNusX5lLPFjIFgOTBoPW/s1600/BBShower2010SGA+057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9hesUpaslQslNavbLol3TShtkJU8qRmgemDireCaF_SRmGToxHFr8LMVQ_I-sSaaMRdAYH_0gnPabLgJsOuWdtAB15QJQkDuWyb2-4eTWWJz9JOXHGBtGSMX3KNusX5lLPFjIFgOTBoPW/s200/BBShower2010SGA+057.jpg" width="200" wt="true" /></a></div>Many other items from the Baby Bird wish list were also donated. The total estimated value of donated wish list items is about $3,000.<br />
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AWC Executive Director Beth Bloomfield said, “It was so sweet to see guests arriving with bags full of the gifts they’d picked out for the baby birds. Many guests even wrapped their gift with a ribbon.” Bloomfield continued, “While we have regular donors and volunteers that support AWC, this event gave the broader community a chance to both learn and take action in support of Alabama’s native wildlife. The generosity of the guests is deeply moving.”<br />
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The <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Baby%20Bird%20Shower.pdf" target="_blank">AWC wish list</a> is still posted online at www.awrc.org, and the need for the listed items will remain high through the end of the baby bird season in September. Wish list donations can be delivered seven days a week from 9:00AM to 5:00PM to the Alabama Wildlife Center, 100 Terrace Drive, Oak Mountain State Park, in Pelham. <br />
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Bloomfield says the organization estimates that due to their dramatically increased caseload during the baby bird season, AWC’s food costs are currently running at about fifteen thousand dollars a month. Most of the babies eat half-hourly for twelve to fourteen hours a day. A single baby Red-tailed Hawk will eat ten to twelve mice a day. A Chimney Swift will eat about one hundred and twenty-five mealworms each day. A baby Merganser Duck can eat up to one hundred minnows daily. “Anything the public can give to help Alabama’s injured and orphaned native baby birds is needed right now.”<br />
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<a href="http://www.awrc.org/make_a_donation.htm" target="_blank">Donate today!</a><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Alabama-Wildlife-Center/112543375437502?ref=ts" target="_blank">Find AWC on Facebook</a> for event pix.Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-32222722966137669952010-05-07T09:25:00.003-05:002010-05-07T09:57:58.154-05:00Wildlife Efforts Towards the Gulf Coast Oil Spill - What You Can Do NOW<a href="http://www.tristatebird.org/" target="_blank">Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research</a> has been asked to oversee the wildlife rehabilitation response along the Gulf Coast and is working closely with many collaborating organizations, including the <a href="http://www.awrc.org/index.html" target="_blank">Alabama Wildlife Center</a>. All response efforts are being coordinated by the Unified Command on-site.<br />
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Tri-State has been responding to wildlife involved in oil spills since 1976. Tri-State has a trained, dedicated staff on call 24-hours-a-day to respond to wildlife contaminated by oil spills anywhere in the world. Tri-State is one of only two organizations in the country that can professionally manage a response to a major spill. They are the lead agency and have contacted AWC and asked us to have our staff and volunteers with oiled wildlife experience on standby.<br />
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BP has made a solid commitment to Tri-State to cover their costs associated with the response to this incident, including the wildlife aspect. However, please remember that small collaborating agencies like AWC are using their own funds to respond to the fifty-plus calls and emails we're receiving daily, media requests, preparations to respond should we be called to assist, as well as the eventuality that should our experienced staff be called to the Coast, there will be transportation, housing and meal expenses. In addition there will also be the cost of trying to cover the workload back here at AWC while experienced staff is away. All this is also taking place during what is our most demanding season of the year. We are currently operating near capacity in our rehabilitation clinic.<br />
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We are hearing that wildlife supporters are feeling frustrated by the fact that they are not being put into action. Please know that even the most experienced wildlife rehabilitators are also in a holding pattern. We encourage you to channel your concerns and frustrations into the actions that are available at this time:<br />
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1. <b>Fundraise/Donate</b> - Take action to help wildlife agencies to absorb their increased expenses related to the spill. Most of us operate hand-to-mouth, and few have contingency funds for disasters like this. We anticipate that if somewhere down the road there is reimbursement for some expenses from BP, they won't likely cover the expense of responding to the public's requests for information (very time-consuming), our efforts to organize and prepare for our potential call to serve on the Coast, and the cost of covering for our absent staff and volunteers who may be called to help on the Coast. <a href="http://www.awrc.org/make_a_donation.htm" target="_blank">You can donate online at awrc.org.</a> <br />
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2. <b>Volunteer Now </b>- Help your favorite wildlife agency <i>now</i>. In addition to being in the midst of our most demanding season of the year, we are all experiencing a greatly increased workload simply responding to folks who are contacting us for information. You can help us to organize and be prepared to mobilize when the call to serve arrives. You can also begin training to help us fill in the gaps once our experienced staff and volunteers are called to the Coast. To volunteer at AWC, email bbloomfield@awrc.org. To begin training as an Animal Care volunteer, <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Volunteer_Registration.htm" target="_blank">register online for the Sunday, June 6 orientation from 1-4pm</a>.<br />
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3. <b>Experienced Rehabbers Register</b> - A Paraprofessional Coordinator (PPC) has been assigned to compile a list and organize scheduling of potential responders providing the information requested below. Paraprofessionals located within the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida and Texas will have first preference in scheduling and will be scheduled for efforts located within their home state. If you are located outside of these states and are interested in providing wildlife assistance, please submit the same requested information. All responders will be contacted by the PPC when their assistance is needed.<br />
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You must include your name, address including city and state, phone number (prefer cell phone and alternate numbers), email address, if you have prior oil spill experience, and how far you can travel, as well as:<br />
a. If you are a Rehabilitator with at least 6 months of experience;<br />
b. What species you have experience with, i.e. wading birds, raptors, pelagic seabirds, waterfowl, etc. It would also be beneficial to know if you are a veterinarian or an avian veterinarian, a veterinary technician, or a well-seasoned rehabilitator;<br />
c. If you have a minimum of 4 hours of HAZCOM certification;<br />
d. If you have Rabies pre-exposure shots;<br />
e. Your availability. (This can be a rough estimate by identifying dates available.)<br />
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Experienced Rehabbers should direct inquires or any calls about your interest in providing wildlife assistance to fw4ppc@fws.gov or to 404/679-7049.<br />
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A paraprofessional is defined as individuals that:<br />
<li>Either possess, or work directly under a person possessing, an active permit or authorization related to the species to be worked on;</li><br />
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<li>Are affiliated with a wildlife organization working within the Wildlife Branch of the Incident Command Structure (ICS), or is a staff member of a wildlife Trustee agency;</li><br />
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<li>Agree to work under, and abide by, appropriate planning documents prepared by the Unified Command (such as Site Safety Plan, Incident Action Plan, public affairs requirement, etc.) and</li><br />
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<li>Have a working knowledge and experience (at least 3 months) with the general protocol, procedures and safety hazards associated with working on the species of question.</li><br />
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Anyone who does not qualify as a paraprofessional and is still interested in volunteering may register at Gulf of Mexico-<a href="http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com/go/page/2931/45895/" target="_blank">Deepwater Horizon Incident Volunteer Request Info</a>.<br />
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Please avoid going to affected areas or handling wildlife until you are part of a coordinated response effort. Thank you in advance for your assistance and for your willingness to help America's wildlife.<br />
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Sincerely,<br />
Beth Bloomfield, Executive Director<br />
Alabama Wildlife Center<br />
205-663-7930 Ext. 5<br />
bbloomfield@awrc.orgAlabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-60093356576104753282010-05-01T15:03:00.006-05:002010-05-01T15:48:59.825-05:00Update on Gulf Coast Oil SpillHere's the current situation regarding wildlife and the Gulf Coast Oil Spill.<br />
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The <a href="http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/04/photogalleries/100430-oil-spill-gulf-mexico-pictures/#gulf-oil-birds-oily-wing_19797_600x450.jpg" target="_blank">first oiled bird was found off-shore in Louisiana</a> Friday morning. As of 3:00PM on 5/1/10, there are no new reports of any additional oiled wildlife discoveries. The Alabama Wildlife Center is coordinating with agencies already on the ground at the Gulf Coast. We are currently on standby. <br />
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The first most likely scenario is that AWC will be asked to send our staff and volunteers that have experience cleaning oiled wildlife to work at cleaning stations on the Gulf Coast. At that point, AWC will need additional trained animal care volunteers to fill in to care for wildlife in our Clinic. Even during times of crisis, the need remains strong right here at home.<br />
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If at some point there are more oil-affected animals than can be treated by cleaning stations on the Gulf Coast, AWC may be called to transport wildlife here for care. If that happens, there will be a need for transport drivers and volunteers to train as oiled wildlife cleaners, as well as a need for donated supplies. In this situation, we would publish the list of specific supplies needed and schedule volunteer training sessions.<br />
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We'd like to reiterate that it's still a waiting game at this point. There will likely be a need for help, but right now the situation is still unfolding. No direct service is needed at this time. In the mean time, there are five steps that community members can take to help:<br />
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1. Get on the AWC Help with Gulf Coast contact list. Email wildlife@awrc.org with your name and the words "Help with gulf Coast" in the subject line. Any friends and family that might not have email should call AWC at 205-663-7930 Ext. 3 and leave name and telephone number with area code. We will contact you only when there is specific action needed.<br />
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2. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Alabama-Wildlife-Center/112543375437502?ref=ts" target="_blank">Find AWC on Facebook</a> for news and information updates - and share our page with your Facebook friends. You can also continue to check this blog.<br />
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3. Become an Animal Care volunteer. Our next Orientation is this Sunday, May 2 from 1-4pm. You can <a href="http://www.awrc.org/Volunteer_Registration.htm" target="_blank">register online</a> from a link on our homepage. Or you can simply arrive early for the orientation to complete your registration in person. There is a $10 fee.<br />
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4. Donate to AWC so that we can help where help is most needed. <a href="http://www.awrc.org/make_a_donation.htm" target="_blank">You can donate online at awrc.org</a>, or send your check payable to Alabama Wildlife Center to 100 Terrace Drive, Pelham, AL 35124. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and donations are tax-deductible.<br />
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5. If you or someone you know encounters oiled wildlife on the Gulf Coast, call the toll-free Oiled Wildlife Hotline at 1-866-557-1401. For any other Alabama wildlife in need unrelated to the Gulf Coast oil spill, you should still contact the Alabama Wildlife Center at 205-663-7930 Ext. 2.<br />
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We anticipate that the need for help with wildlife affected by the Gulf Coast oil spill will be great and long-lasting. While the situation is receiving a lot of media attention right now, we are urging people to remember that the greatest need will be down the road, and may last for some time. We encourage everyone to put their concern into the actions that are available at this time, and to standby for further instruction. We appreciate the many calls and emails we've received from community members that want to help. Your help will be needed. Thank you.Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-11332659690778502892010-04-30T22:24:00.000-05:002010-04-30T22:24:48.120-05:00Cooper's Hawk Release<div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">In March we recieved a call from the Birmingham Zoo about an injured Cooper's Hawk that was found in the middle of the construction site of their new exhibit. The Hawk was suffering from severe head trauma, was unable to stand and had soft tissue injuries on its feet (what is called "bumblefoot"). After a month of foot treatments and wraps performed every other day and increased movement and mobility, we placed the bird in a flight cage for reconditioning. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSehhjSJNWb6Yj7F5uw11T0ztq-P65uDfJzzAHF2ws3dJvVCqI42SN6XeUdY8de8ts8BBSp-8pl_AM9M3CIUHTHo_uSJPu2u7TIyK66swslwtn8cVI-VH-WmdnjcUXzyQyCZ8NwTmSW5JF/s1600/Cooper's+feet+001.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSehhjSJNWb6Yj7F5uw11T0ztq-P65uDfJzzAHF2ws3dJvVCqI42SN6XeUdY8de8ts8BBSp-8pl_AM9M3CIUHTHo_uSJPu2u7TIyK66swslwtn8cVI-VH-WmdnjcUXzyQyCZ8NwTmSW5JF/s320/Cooper's+feet+001.jpg" tt="true" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cooper's Hawk foot wrap.</span></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">After a few weeks reconditioning and a thorough physical exam, we decided the Cooper's Hawk was ready for release.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtShDusP3ASVlxU6PLJhjOScYYIsi2ICmyB_45UewfjNJkNVN7PAVkxS9LfnAGRlHCSYWzkPl6B55AVyvSlNgsoPFg_VizlbCO0e-yKMkOm3D5kYbfPKWsoSWnIr0i7adjMvK5qL8MWQwC/s1600/Cooper's+Release+001.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtShDusP3ASVlxU6PLJhjOScYYIsi2ICmyB_45UewfjNJkNVN7PAVkxS9LfnAGRlHCSYWzkPl6B55AVyvSlNgsoPFg_VizlbCO0e-yKMkOm3D5kYbfPKWsoSWnIr0i7adjMvK5qL8MWQwC/s320/Cooper's+Release+001.jpg" tt="true" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Staff member Lee McDonald prepares to release the Hawk.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjauw5ECbzLpmVNzZq0oyY9IMNHj-Jqy7yO79CMWy2fZT2Bn3B1zUs3U00NN87lwLBeayTOvybLZ1DCJCIFvCxdC3EYhPX8QuyQkyCAzgDFJrRSbhwnXj9zjfaiqiebuMamSNjN5ViddWr/s1600/Cooper's+Release+002edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjauw5ECbzLpmVNzZq0oyY9IMNHj-Jqy7yO79CMWy2fZT2Bn3B1zUs3U00NN87lwLBeayTOvybLZ1DCJCIFvCxdC3EYhPX8QuyQkyCAzgDFJrRSbhwnXj9zjfaiqiebuMamSNjN5ViddWr/s320/Cooper's+Release+002edit.jpg" tt="true" width="184" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cooper's Hawk taking flight</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After flying to a nearby branch, the Hawk checked out his surroundings for a few minutes</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrdkPilfg3BNnixo71eMPrptsmG36t6tMnC0ajQExK5_Gz6oNpL9if2JvuyO51LMQ80wlxgKoKYJG9f4MBmUPHatCokzEfkm2L17FeLmkuoUMNT0gONyO9LqhN3HYs1iMWX9UrolaovLC3/s1600/Cooper's+Release+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrdkPilfg3BNnixo71eMPrptsmG36t6tMnC0ajQExK5_Gz6oNpL9if2JvuyO51LMQ80wlxgKoKYJG9f4MBmUPHatCokzEfkm2L17FeLmkuoUMNT0gONyO9LqhN3HYs1iMWX9UrolaovLC3/s320/Cooper's+Release+edit.jpg" tt="true" width="305" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cooper's Hawk perched on branch.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center">and flew off deeper into the woods to freedom.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;"><em>Jessie Griswold</em></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;"><em>Raptor Rehabilitation Coordinator</em></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-6181571015962678382010-04-26T09:24:00.000-05:002010-04-26T09:24:45.106-05:00Juvenile Crow reunited with Parents and Flock!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">A fledgling American Crow was picked up by an Alabasters Animal Control Officer and brought to AWC at 10am on April 23rd. The finder’s said that the Crow was just sitting at their front door and thought the juvenile was injured. After a full examination, the Crow seemed to be in good health. We contacted the finders and she said the parents were flying around and calling, so we decided to attempt a reunite immediately. After arriving an adult was spotted and we decided to place the baby behind the finder’s home in a large brushy area along an easement. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0D9BdyzY1iLpT6jEJhMHc7JTL3Hk0bHMmN-Quo4Kjlydvg7SFJJp1LuuX7x2IzoG_NSrHU908K1Lo0FG8aFKVVe8twre9rsxaxMX6I5UyVCJqP0sPFVyQhqTlpG-XfgJCTYJuWvmN4WDq/s1600/Crow+Reunite+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0D9BdyzY1iLpT6jEJhMHc7JTL3Hk0bHMmN-Quo4Kjlydvg7SFJJp1LuuX7x2IzoG_NSrHU908K1Lo0FG8aFKVVe8twre9rsxaxMX6I5UyVCJqP0sPFVyQhqTlpG-XfgJCTYJuWvmN4WDq/s320/Crow+Reunite+004.jpg" tt="true" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">American Crow adult</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">When we got the juvenile out of the box it began to give an alarm call and the whole flock of American Crows flew in. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj246obHdHjQgp7kZPuBSU6y5r9rm12vDZ2WWPB43WF0YCU1HSXWKlLEkMkATg2bSG87KaNJHOb2uOSVc5rQ1b_A76vcfwtcJxWlP71nOYRhahBFaqGnIslqbi2QXcUeifKbvMjVh4bIU3J/s1600/Crow+Reunite+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj246obHdHjQgp7kZPuBSU6y5r9rm12vDZ2WWPB43WF0YCU1HSXWKlLEkMkATg2bSG87KaNJHOb2uOSVc5rQ1b_A76vcfwtcJxWlP71nOYRhahBFaqGnIslqbi2QXcUeifKbvMjVh4bIU3J/s320/Crow+Reunite+005.jpg" tt="true" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The Parents</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Both parents began diving at us as we placed the baby on a branch. They were still swooping us as we retreated to our cars confident that baby would be well cared for. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbv45B6FC8j4hpJT_4fRzdmugDNhi_KGJ0u0K4Vgw_BMK97qiti5c1kvwjdZnd3o6mn9oTaNY2xI2t9_R6jL1hhk7pheGyNkQtExIw6wDKm2QbPjmDjyb7OaSibVXNtZByk0NZspJ_oD6i/s1600/Crow+Reunite+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbv45B6FC8j4hpJT_4fRzdmugDNhi_KGJ0u0K4Vgw_BMK97qiti5c1kvwjdZnd3o6mn9oTaNY2xI2t9_R6jL1hhk7pheGyNkQtExIw6wDKm2QbPjmDjyb7OaSibVXNtZByk0NZspJ_oD6i/s320/Crow+Reunite+002.jpg" tt="true" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Juvenile in the tree</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;"><em>Jessie Griswold </em></span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;"><em>Raptor Rehabilitation Coordinator</em></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-32450872952936732122010-04-22T22:26:00.004-05:002010-04-23T07:03:28.170-05:00Pell City Barred Owls Reunited<div style="text-align: left;">A call came in to the <a href="http://www.awrc.org/" target="_blank">Alabama Wildlife Center</a> at 5:00pm on April 18th from Sandra Jean, one of AWC's Board members, about a juvenile <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/barred_owl/id" target="_blank">Barred Owl</a> that was found in the middle of the road in Pell City, Alabama. Volunteer transporter, Dave Grisky, met Sandra Jean in Leeds and brought the owl to be examined for injuries to AWC by 7:30pm. After a full exam and health check, the Barred Owl was deemed healthy and arrangements for a reunite were immediately underway.<br />
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The following day, Sandra Jean worked hard to make sure we had the means to put the baby back into its original nest or secure an artificial nest to a tree. Sam and I headed out Monday afternoon and upon arrival, began looking for the nest and thought we had found a cavity that the baby had fallen from. Both parents were flying around and calling and we heard another juvenile Barred Owl call somewhere in the thick tangle of Privit, Poison Ivy and understory trees.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIGqJwVH7ewPEH-bOSeW07h-vaByJQ7GKoI1O6eSszeznkmcOdFMew0A1Dtix8ixRlk_g_oc6TAMWNbR9P5KKLMqQgGWDy7olwdttxcw98SASxKMLMPoHr7eW1P-uArVewWL5IEQperqc7/s1600/BR22,24+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIGqJwVH7ewPEH-bOSeW07h-vaByJQ7GKoI1O6eSszeznkmcOdFMew0A1Dtix8ixRlk_g_oc6TAMWNbR9P5KKLMqQgGWDy7olwdttxcw98SASxKMLMPoHr7eW1P-uArVewWL5IEQperqc7/s320/BR22,24+006.jpg" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Parent Barred Owl - P</em></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>hoto by Sam Griswold</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">After searching a bit more, we located the actual nest about 20 yards away. Several songbird feathers, a dead mouse and numerous droppings confirmed that it was their nest.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4FiMOaYP7yLmXCjJFnhHXvC7RVfp_KN_EYIRU0RJTg93aQ4APV2i1caB6wNN6u2qlsERd7cZeU4_Dihw-u0jM3eifke0xwjxq3HQquesRuegnxu70D_HOObTmdHb953GMfm4L6a1hR-RJ/s1600/BR22,24+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4FiMOaYP7yLmXCjJFnhHXvC7RVfp_KN_EYIRU0RJTg93aQ4APV2i1caB6wNN6u2qlsERd7cZeU4_Dihw-u0jM3eifke0xwjxq3HQquesRuegnxu70D_HOObTmdHb953GMfm4L6a1hR-RJ/s320/BR22,24+002.jpg" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Original Nest - </em></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Photo by Sam Griswold</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The original nest did not appear to have any other juveniles in it and it was too high up to reach, so we decided that we could place a nest basket in a tree nearby. While waiting for the 30 foot ladder to arrive, we started getting the nest basket ready and supplies that we would need to lift the baby up. On a trip to the car, Sam found another juvenile perched in some low vines, shrubs and branches.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPmzwrh9Jsx9bzl2mMf1RqAj8uNaKJwPUawN4hb6GY7xBBGkNsUB18fUZU3zvuZL1KZ-6zsPFINnn1Ygvx8cH6zW5RICwS1D7iQFJMNo_eaXHif02J43060ZFISZQriBYC4GzZkBBWTzg/s1600/BR22,24+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPmzwrh9Jsx9bzl2mMf1RqAj8uNaKJwPUawN4hb6GY7xBBGkNsUB18fUZU3zvuZL1KZ-6zsPFINnn1Ygvx8cH6zW5RICwS1D7iQFJMNo_eaXHif02J43060ZFISZQriBYC4GzZkBBWTzg/s320/BR22,24+005.jpg" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Sibling perched in understory - </em></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Photo by Sam Griswold</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxWUx_7oCdMR4KclhS3ApQ2kkAwFbCaP_MZs_q1vfsvDsSzha4lk2D7uflPHuo1h6u1QQ-ps1hKr4o7u6gjm5DxIoo12zyezWiPIUtqHraAMdjd0X-ZySlGr57dHdFHz-5BneMw86Uzr9O/s1600/BR22,24+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxWUx_7oCdMR4KclhS3ApQ2kkAwFbCaP_MZs_q1vfsvDsSzha4lk2D7uflPHuo1h6u1QQ-ps1hKr4o7u6gjm5DxIoo12zyezWiPIUtqHraAMdjd0X-ZySlGr57dHdFHz-5BneMw86Uzr9O/s320/BR22,24+003.jpg" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Sibling, close up - </em></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Photo by Sam Griswold</em></span></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Mike, a neighbor and original finder, arrived with the ladder and took the nest basket up to secure it to the tree.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxXncFeoUZ1Dq4Y1q0n3lPx3QoTLn6J4G9C9KX4jIWwhoK02a0J5yNR1QGhmSZCxSyhAUSALnHQo9hp_ym7RPsBQnWxpkxDjXwtRxKyjJk72pknEmZzhWgEg_R6z-qT8a1HA1LFsM0pMZg/s1600/BR22,24+009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxXncFeoUZ1Dq4Y1q0n3lPx3QoTLn6J4G9C9KX4jIWwhoK02a0J5yNR1QGhmSZCxSyhAUSALnHQo9hp_ym7RPsBQnWxpkxDjXwtRxKyjJk72pknEmZzhWgEg_R6z-qT8a1HA1LFsM0pMZg/s320/BR22,24+009.jpg" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Mike securing nest basket - </em></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Photo by Jessie Griswold</em></span></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">After securing the nest, it was my turn to climb the ladder and slowly bring the juveniles up one at a time in a bucket.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_7OL8hyphenhyphen8kJ9AneF8mdekSsO6l3o-DKx93_BCdywxXOGR_BlVG5g9DplESogvMADEzOPo5VGI1bnYmxsfAKsZZgSDFQv00DooTey-wHij2_R1EpNqspdfNbCsXMPBky80A3ZfFFG-K3UJv/s1600/In_bucket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_7OL8hyphenhyphen8kJ9AneF8mdekSsO6l3o-DKx93_BCdywxXOGR_BlVG5g9DplESogvMADEzOPo5VGI1bnYmxsfAKsZZgSDFQv00DooTey-wHij2_R1EpNqspdfNbCsXMPBky80A3ZfFFG-K3UJv/s320/In_bucket.jpg" tt="true" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Juvenile Barred Owl in the bucket - </em></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Photo by Sam Griswold</em></span></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJWw_boEOAEX8ed-JHSWv7FLs4r9PAfwP-tq6acQR_gbhjaLX-vVC8n2z29LeK1f1NKjwOXr85L9k25I0yi0YZFLmK9CLZl8hpbFYR9F1C9j71jXV-e7G1s17599-TdNosHYqSeTaYqwlE/s1600/Jessie_nest_basket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJWw_boEOAEX8ed-JHSWv7FLs4r9PAfwP-tq6acQR_gbhjaLX-vVC8n2z29LeK1f1NKjwOXr85L9k25I0yi0YZFLmK9CLZl8hpbFYR9F1C9j71jXV-e7G1s17599-TdNosHYqSeTaYqwlE/s320/Jessie_nest_basket.jpg" tt="true" width="224" /></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Putting the first Juvenile in the basket - </em></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Photo by Sam Griswold</em></span></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">It was pretty unnerving to climb that high up. But putting those babies back with there parents was much more important than my fear of falling. The parents kept getting closer and closer as well and were not very happy that I was so near their babies. We gathered all our gear and left the parents to tend to their young.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWn-5lFRcKGu9PcX2VumHytg7JuMs9l3dUSLUQ-gg1dmJc8k3f-OTJx_sj_juoVbcpcUDKAaaMj37fZHJQsoBnLL1PFqtPnCEEvx8IQ5VZILdioDc29nG2rI6suCI35InMQkdECsZzwquz/s1600/Nest_closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWn-5lFRcKGu9PcX2VumHytg7JuMs9l3dUSLUQ-gg1dmJc8k3f-OTJx_sj_juoVbcpcUDKAaaMj37fZHJQsoBnLL1PFqtPnCEEvx8IQ5VZILdioDc29nG2rI6suCI35InMQkdECsZzwquz/s320/Nest_closeup.jpg" tt="true" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>In nest basket in tree - </em></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Photo by Jessie Griswold</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The following evening Sandra Jean called us back about one of the babies on the ground again. We arranged for a transport in case there may be something wrong with it. The baby seemed healthy and was tested to be sure he was a brancher. I reaturned to the nest site Wednesday evening and placed the baby on a branch that he would be able to access other branches and work his way back up into the canopy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Both parents were seen and heard.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjevShCiohQdyWL9QjU_s_UUk1-vghlwI37o3KCQ8AFQQc201zT4ReAzHIK3dUP-54rWrv9VxqSdMydOxZlw6Tmzijv0r8C_6Rtrw8E9zLFaqriyElZQFE34KsDtdcUx90p26dPbuIHriI3/s1600/BR24+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjevShCiohQdyWL9QjU_s_UUk1-vghlwI37o3KCQ8AFQQc201zT4ReAzHIK3dUP-54rWrv9VxqSdMydOxZlw6Tmzijv0r8C_6Rtrw8E9zLFaqriyElZQFE34KsDtdcUx90p26dPbuIHriI3/s320/BR24+006.jpg" tt="true" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: xx-small;">BR24 on a branch - </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo by Jessie Griswold</span></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Brancher Barred Owls are notorious for moving constantly up and down the canopy of their parents territory. We often get calls about juveniles that are on the ground, but end up being healthy branchers. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Its so importat we receive all juvenile raptors immediately and we get all location information, so that if they are healthy, we can return them to their parents as quickly as possible. For more information, visit our </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.awrc.org/Raptor_Archives.htm" target="_blank">Juvenile Raptor Restoration Project</a> on our website!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: #38761d;">Jessie Griswold</span></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: #38761d;">Raptor Rehabilitation Coordinator</span></em></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-71612350828041150692010-04-18T10:27:00.002-05:002010-04-21T06:20:23.982-05:00Carolina Wrens Nesting at AWC<div style="text-align: left;">Every year we have a nest of <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Eastern_Phoebe/id.aspx?spp=Eastern_Phoebe" target="_blank">Eastern Phoebes</a> above the door to a maintenance room. This year, the <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Carolina_Wren/id" target="_blank">Carolina Wrens</a> decided to build onto the previous years Eastern Phoebe nest. For about 2 weeks we've seen the parents come and go with building matierials and eventually mealworms collected from the Pond Diets we set out daily.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipaiGksO_2LidvdjQnSgEinj8WQds-w-j_kpxZlYnXNu-5z8H8nLnHVEpRjCc42Jx_D0PXLe-BPt9IlsibC5nbJrQfuLTNN23TwWMhyG5nOkaLia-bCkxyG0-wsVqOWrx9Y1sqCgYrlNOj/s1600/Rodent+Room+Wrens+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipaiGksO_2LidvdjQnSgEinj8WQds-w-j_kpxZlYnXNu-5z8H8nLnHVEpRjCc42Jx_D0PXLe-BPt9IlsibC5nbJrQfuLTNN23TwWMhyG5nOkaLia-bCkxyG0-wsVqOWrx9Y1sqCgYrlNOj/s400/Rodent+Room+Wrens+004.jpg" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>3 Carolina Wrens on Thursday April 15th</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you look closely, you can see the various materials that the birds use to build nests: a <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Great_Horned_Owl/id" target="_blank">Great Horned Owl</a> feather, pieces of astroturf, leaves, grasses, mosses, plastic wrapper.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I was leaving Saturday, I noticed this little guy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsMRPMsgaTZUv51_CA7NrfSDi2RnBBkO2QBNl_rE3j-tprz2xVpVvuKXNtw_Oc3J3i8oRqiwJKgHcvwUM_PJqJa8QxRn60aitg97PgN3v-K2JsFJ2JTy0f20_CI34M9yOS9QOLvW5_7Ft/s1600/Rodent+Room+Wrens+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsMRPMsgaTZUv51_CA7NrfSDi2RnBBkO2QBNl_rE3j-tprz2xVpVvuKXNtw_Oc3J3i8oRqiwJKgHcvwUM_PJqJa8QxRn60aitg97PgN3v-K2JsFJ2JTy0f20_CI34M9yOS9QOLvW5_7Ft/s320/Rodent+Room+Wrens+005.jpg" wt="true" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Carolina Wren fledgling!</em></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"> One of the babies had fledged! The others are soon to follow.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitg8MLLDRbBL8UY7pTY-99x_wdVkXE8FRs-nqZWq4THEdHtID46Joxd8A1NRz59SHZs2sYCPMEk-VbRjwveK-uhZnGuDatyvrZZkOCb9ZLVuZlIFA_8PBr845YmgnaMy_DLyVypjZDwe9R/s1600/Rodent+Room+Wrens+009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitg8MLLDRbBL8UY7pTY-99x_wdVkXE8FRs-nqZWq4THEdHtID46Joxd8A1NRz59SHZs2sYCPMEk-VbRjwveK-uhZnGuDatyvrZZkOCb9ZLVuZlIFA_8PBr845YmgnaMy_DLyVypjZDwe9R/s320/Rodent+Room+Wrens+009.jpg" wt="true" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;"><em></em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;"><em>Jessie Griswold</em></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;"><em>Raptor Rehabilitation Coordinator</em></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6411253475494859543.post-84029368277760748682010-04-14T13:53:00.002-05:002010-04-14T14:01:21.358-05:00Red-shouldered Hawk Reunified April 13!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgThV73ViZ7tv9JDinucERWaPIp_i4FwfAkmMcuvu7nOK5oGIYNIb8mDyVkOqMcqeQrtZalqKdpJzv5pTFLHXTYHP1OzEb0mrw3UkNc1mjxqBGtCXErQexae9315akIA5jTQMRdBF-FrVAA/s1600/BR19+%233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgThV73ViZ7tv9JDinucERWaPIp_i4FwfAkmMcuvu7nOK5oGIYNIb8mDyVkOqMcqeQrtZalqKdpJzv5pTFLHXTYHP1OzEb0mrw3UkNc1mjxqBGtCXErQexae9315akIA5jTQMRdBF-FrVAA/s320/BR19+%233.jpg" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Baby Raptor #19 of 2010 at AWC</span></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>On Tuesday, April 13, the <a href="http://www.awrc.org/index.html" target="_blank">Alabama Wildlife Center</a> received our first baby hawk of the 2010 season, a beautiful nestling <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Red-shouldered_Hawk/id" target="_blank">Red-shouldered Hawk</a>. Found on the ground the previous evening about 6 feet from its nest tree, this young hawk was helpless, scared and vulnerable to predation. Benji and Lisa Reaves, the home owners who found the baby, knew that leaving the young bird where it was would likely end in tragedy. They housed the bird overnight and brought it to AWC first thing the following morning. Our initial exam revealed that the baby was uninjured from the fall and in perfect health—a prime candidate to be reunited with its parents. </div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">AWC staff member, Lee McDonald arrived at the Reaves’ residence around 5pm and began playing recorded Red-shouldered Hawk calls to attract the parents. Within 5 minutes the mother bird appeared. The homeowners pointed out the nest which was located about 40’ up in a White Oak. A bulldozer was employed in restoring this young hawk to its nest. A sibling was discovered when BR19 was placed back in the nest. The mother hawk was watching close by, waiting to resume care of her young.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4mKHdgqWChsKpNC-foOLlQLIkkJSkQRD8sV9Xuk6HvugnwxxHsjFJZ0T395dx0XfdIUiTjcM7_-HaiRrI4RRYHMHKsqHEcS_U3EbUW5P2NMfVX5bjwll1dl4mGNLZ_Yh6F2_5F61K8EZh/s1600/BR19+%26+Sibling+Nest+Shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4mKHdgqWChsKpNC-foOLlQLIkkJSkQRD8sV9Xuk6HvugnwxxHsjFJZ0T395dx0XfdIUiTjcM7_-HaiRrI4RRYHMHKsqHEcS_U3EbUW5P2NMfVX5bjwll1dl4mGNLZ_Yh6F2_5F61K8EZh/s320/BR19+%26+Sibling+Nest+Shot.jpg" wt="true" /></a></div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Reunited with sibling!</em></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Another happy reunification thanks to thoughtful finders like the Reaves, and the compassionate work of AWC.<br />
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You have the power to help Alabama's native wildlife. <a href="http://www.awrc.org/make_a_donation.htm" target="_blank">Donate today!</a>Alabama Wildlife Centerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03848452335209529686noreply@blogger.com0