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Spring/Summer 2009 Vol. 30 No. 2 WRA Wildlife Rescue Association of BC ISSN 11188-5106
WRA Past, Present & Future Special Anniversary Edition
By Glenn Boyle, Ph.D., Executive Director
T
his special anniversary
edition of To The Rescue
is dedicated to the
celebration of Wildlife Rescue
Association’s rich and varied
history over the last three
decades. In this time, our mission
to help wildlife through animal
rehabilitation and public edu-
cation has been made possible by
Photo: Paul Steeves
Photo: Tracy Riddell
the dedication and support of so
many individuals, groups, bus-
inesses, and other community
sponsors and collaborators. It is
humbling to consider how much
time and effort, and how many WRA’s Care Facility on Glencarin Drive
people and resources, have helped
to bring us to this point (see
WRA Timeline, page 7). facilities helped WRA to accom-
Photo credit: Paul
Inside To The Rescue
modate increasing caseloads and
WRA started with the passion provide significant improvements Director’s Message 2
and concerted effort of a few to wildlife care.
Steeves
30th Anniversary Events 3
individuals, whose commitment
to helping local wildlife led to 30 Years Caring for
WRA’s growth continued in
the creation of the Lower subsequent years, as the org- Wildlife 4
Mainland Wildlife Rescue anization developed a reputation Volunteer Corner 4
Association in 1979. The next for leadership and innovation, Reaching Out With
decade was one of transfor- including the use of bird banding Education 5
mation, as the work and rep- for post-release monitoring, help
Helping Hands 6
utation of the organization grew ing to establish a provincial re-
steadily. In 1985, the new name habilitation network, and dev- WRA Timeline 7
of WRA Wildlife Rescue eloping more specialist on-site care Success Stories 8-10
Association of BC was adopted, facilities and expertise. By the mid- Orphaned Wildlife 11
and within a few years, the 1990s, the caseload had increased In Memory 11
organization had moved to its to over 3,000 animals a year, which WRA Wish List 12
current location on the south is an annual average that has
Special Thanks 13
shore of Burnaby Lake, where continued to the present day.
customized indoor and outdoor Continued on page 14 Foster Fur & Feathers 15
www.wildliferescue.ca WRA Spring/Summer 2009 1
Executive Director’s Message
Spring/Summer 2009 Vol. 30 No. 2
Time Moves Us On
By Glenn Boyle, Ph.D., Executive Director
To The Rescue is the newsletter of
WRA Wildlife Rescue Association of “The worst of times, like the best, are
BC and is produced three times a year. away.
always passing away.” ~ Boethius
Photo: Tracy Riddell
S
Editor: Glenn Boyle
Editorial Committee: Glenn Boyle,
ince our last report to
Mike Maddison & Elaine Pope members in To The Rescue,
Design & Layout: Tracy Riddell much has been happening
Print Production: Colourtime Printing
& Digital Imaging at WRA, including the start of
another spring season. This year,
Glenn Boyle, Executive Director
the usual influx of altricial baby
Photo: Tracy Riddell
birds was delayed by a few weeks,
but in their stead, we received generous gifts of time, supplies
many young precocial birds, such and financial donations, which
WRA Wildlife Rescue Association of as ducklings and geese, and an account for over three quarters of
BC provides leadership in rehabilitat- unusually high number of raptors our annual operating budget.
ing wildlife and in promoting the
welfare of wild animals in the urban and owls. By the end of April,
environment. more than 500 wild animals had What provides some security in
5216 Glencarin Drive already been admitted into the these times, however, is the
Burnaby, BC V5B 3C1
Care Centre year to date, with knowledge that WRA has been
Administration: 604.526.2747
Care Centre: 604.526.7275 about three times that number providing services in wildlife
Email: info@wildliferescue.ca expected over the summer rehabilitation and public edu-
Web: www.wildliferescue.ca
Registered Charity #: months. cation for 30 years. WRA has
131373490RR0001 established a tradition and
BOARD OF DIRECTORS As we have been responding to demonstrated a longevity that is
President: Craig Fisher these seasonal changes in animal defined by resilience to surviving
Vice-President: Joanne Petrini change, good and bad. As we
Treasurer: Allan Dorff
numbers and species, we have also
Secretary: Diane Simmons witnessed some of the ongoing move forward, leaving the current
Directors at Large: Deborah Markle challenges resulting from challenges behind, we must always
and Allison Morrison
Animal Care Committee Chair: widespread financial and eco- remember to thank those who
Liz Thunstrom nomic uncertainty, which is not support our important work, and
Consulting Veterinarian: recognize that our future achieve-
Judith Siegert
something that any charitable
organization can afford to ignore. ments will continue to be built
CARE CENTRE STAFF
In times like these, charities are on their contributions. Time may
Team Leader, Wildlife Rehab-
ilitation: Lani Sheldon particularly at risk because many move us on, but our future
Wildlife Rehabilitators: rely so much on the generosity success remains rooted in the
Kira Baker, Linda Bakker, Courtney
of the public to fund their same sound principles of comm-
Cox, Gabriela Halas, Sarah
Moulaison and Marcy Potter operations. As a prime example, unity support.
Volunteer Coordinator: the work of WRA is made
Linda Bakker
Care Centre Liaison: possible by many individuals’
Jane Thomsing
EDUCATION & OUTREACH
Education Coordinator:
To receive a PDF version of To The Rescue
Krystal Brennan newsletter by email instead of a mailed
ADMINISTRATION printed copy, send your request to
Executive Director: Glenn Boyle
Administrator: Tracy Riddell tracy@wildliferescue.ca.
WRA Spring/Summer 2009 2 www.wildliferescue.ca
30th Anniversary Events
WRA Celebrations Start At Earth Fest!
WRA’s 30th anniversary event schedule kicked off in April with Earth
Fest, a free environmental fair hosted by WRA at the Burnaby Lake
Rowing Pavilion. This family-friendly Earth Week event celebrated the
achievements and work of WRA, along with a host of other local
environmental organizations in attendance. Festivities included nest box
building, nature walks, crafts and activities, prizes and a children’s
theatrical play written and produced by WRA’s Volunteer Coordinator.
Earth Fest Attending Organizations Earth Fest Sponsors
Thank you for joining us at WRA’s Earth Fest Event to help A special thank you to the
educate and inspire the community about our natural world! following sponsors for contributing
to WRA’s Earth Fest Celebration:
• BC Conservation Foundation • Friends of Semiahmoo Bay • Backyard Bird Centre
Bear Aware Program Society • Burnaby Central Lions Club
• BC Hydro Outreach • Greater Vancouver Invasive
• Burke Mountain Naturalists Plant Council • Capilano Suspension Bridge
• Burnaby Lake Park Association • Green Zebra by TB Vets • City of Surrey
• Catching The Spirit • Kanaka Education & Enviro- • Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary
• Check Your Head: The Youth mental Partnership Society
• Safeway, Kingsway location
Global Education Network • Langley Field Naturalists
• Critter Care Wildlife Society • Musqueam Indian Band • Science World
Photos: Paul Steeves & Tracy Society
• Eco Trek ToursRiddell • Northwest Wildlife Preservation • Starbucks, Brentwood location
• Esther’s Photos Society
Musicians:
• Evergreen • Port Moody Ecological Society
• Fraser Valley Conservancy • Vancouver Rabbit Rescue and • Duet - Soft Focus
Advocacy • Pianist/singer - Roshena Huang
WRA 30th Anniversary Events
Photo: Tracy Riddell
RUBBER DUCKY HALF MARATHON,
7-MILER & KIDS RUN
This fourth annual event, sponsored by ,
unday, October
will be held on Sunday, October 18th at Burnaby
Photo credit:Paul Steeves
Lake. Register now to participate in this run to help
raise funds for WRA’s programs! Receive a $10 coupon Bill Siksay, MP with Krystal Brennan,
when you register online with the WRA’s Education Coordinator at Earth Fest
www.rubberduckyhalf
.rubberduckyhalf.ca.
For all event details visit: www.rubberduckyhalf.ca.
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30th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION GALA
aturday
day,
Join us S aturday, No vember 7th at the Shadbolt Centre in
Photo: Tracy Riddell
Burnaby to conclude our 30-year celebrations. Activities will in-
clude invited speakers, special presentations, and fundraising for
WRA. Tickets $25 available at WRA.
More information on these events is available
at www.wildliferescue.ca Nest box building was a popular
activity at Earth Fest
www.wildliferescue.ca WRA Spring/Summer 2009 3
30 Years Caring For Wildlife
By Lani Sheldon, B.Sc.,Team Leader, Wildlife Rehabilitation
The wildlife rehabilitation and acquiring so
program at WRA has seen some much cumulative
changes over three decades. In knowledge and ex-
that time span, we have received perience over time.
over 65,000 wild animals from
almost 300 species. Included in WRA’s present team
Photo: Linda Bakker
this long list are countless of trained wildlife
Photo: xxxxx
American robins, rock pigeons, rehabilitators have
and great blue herons, as well as diverse backgrounds
rare species such as the laysan in zoology, animal
albatross, magnificent frigatebird welfare, ecology,
and wolverine. surgical nursing, Volunteer Mary Kredba observes a surgical procedure on a
research and environ- grey squirrel performed by Team Leader Lani Sheldon
The growth of our wildlife mental science. They
operations, from a few hundred are supported by excellent pro- In the future, WRA will continue
animals to a few thousand fessional advisors, whose expert to improve the wildlife program,
annually, has also seen greater knowledge in veterinary science but the diligence of our staff and
expertise in providing highly and animal care underpins the volunteers, and our commitment
specialized care for different many success stories that to provide the best care for our
species. This has come from members enjoy reading in each patients, will remain unchanged.
dealing with so many animals edition of To The Rescue.
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Volunteer Corner
By Linda Bakker, M.A., Wildlife Rehabilitator & Volunteer Coordinator
Some 30 years ago, Wildlife the Care Centre and
Rescue Association started as a around 70 transport
small group of concerned volunteers pick up
individuals who responded to a injured wildlife all
need within the community to over the Lower
Photo: Campbell Perry
help wild animals. This volunteer- Mainland and be-
driven enterprise grew steadily yond. We also have
over time into the modern-day a very active volun-
organization that we know teer team working
today, and although many things hard around the site
have changed in the intervening to maintain the
Volunteer Nel Aird releases a bald eagle
years, volunteerism has remained garden and facilities
at the heart of WRA’s work. year round. In add-
ition, the behind-the-scenes work
organization, it is clear that as a
Today, WRA’s many volunteers of our trusted volunteer advisors
group, volunteers will continue
represent a spectrum of diverse and Board of Directors provides
to be the lifeblood that supports
backgrounds, ages and pro- critical advice and effective
WRA in the future. Thanks to
fessions, but all come to WRA stewardship.
all, and see you at our annual
with a common passion for
Volunteer Appreciation Event in
wildlife. At present, about 80 Irrespective of the specific roles
September!
volunteers have a weekly shift in of each volunteer within the
WRA Spring/Summer 2009 4 www.wildliferescue.ca
Reaching Out With Education
By Krystal Brennan, Education Coordinator
WRA has helped people to learn North Vancouver,
more about urban wildlife since Richmond, Surrey,
1979. Our helpline has always the Tri-Cities and
responded to peoples’ questions Vancouver, with
and concerns, and the addition of many more book-
proactive outreach activities in ings and day camps
Photo: Paul Steeves
1989 has allowed us to reach a planned for the
much wider community aud- summer.
ience. Twenty years on, we are
reaching out to more people than In April, we atten-
ever. ded many salmon
Volunteer Jo Shutek represents WRA in the community
releases and Earth
This spring, we have been busy Day celebrations. We
throughout the Lower Mainland. also hosted Earth Fest (see page calendar! To find out which
The City of Surrey’s Envi- 3), a free community fair upcoming public events WRA
ronmental Extravaganza helped attended by many stewardship will be attending, see our website.
to promote our program to groups and around 300 visitors. For information about WRA’s
many new schools, and this year Planning is already underway for education programs, please call
we have already delivered over 50 next year and for what we hope Krystal Brennan at 604-526-
presentations and displays in will become a regular annual 2747.
Burnaby, Delta, Maple Ridge, event in the region’s community
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Wren, Chickadee and Nuthatch Nest Box Plan
Turn your yard into a backyard habitat! While using appropriate safety precautions, building a nest box can
be a fun family project that will help cavity-nesting birds.
Use 5/8" plywood (preferred) or cedar.
• Drill a 1 1/8" diameter hole (1 1/4" diameter for nuthatch
box) on the front piece, centred and 3/4" from the top.
• On the back piece at 1" from the top, drill a 1" long keyhole
shape for hanging purposes. Use 1 3/4" galvanized box nails
to assemble.
• Drill a small hole in one side of the front piece near the bottom
before putting in a nail. This nail acts as the lock pin, while
the two nails at the top of the front piece act as the hinges.
• Recess the floor 1/4" and drill four 3/8" drain holes in the
floor.
• Place boxes in a shaded area 3-10 feet (12-20 feet for nuthatch) off the ground.
• Clean nest boxes in the winter to ensure use by another family of birds in spring.
www.wildliferescue.ca WRA Spring/Summer 2009 5
Helping Hands
Long-service Volunteers
The invaluable contributions of our dedicated 150+ volunteers sustains our life-saving
work with wildlife. WRA’s comprehensive volunteer program provides training,
mentorship and a variety of opportunities and experiences. Please join us in con-
gratulating WRA’s long-service volunteers who have contributed over the last year:
5000+ Hours 500+ Hours 250+ Hours
Don Anderson Nel Aird Shannen Anselmo
Mary Bruneau Linda Bakker* Aniket Balgi
Gloria Norton Barbara Dalpke* Nicole Chin*
Cynthia Picker* Joanne Gaspard Daniela Ciucci*
Elaine Pope Diane Haynes* Laura Evans
Linda Saunders Andy Shutek Gail Forbes*
Liz Thunstrom Jo Shutek Leslie Hurteau
Crystal Simmons* Rosanne Johnson
2000+ Hours Diane Simmons
Kelly Johnson* Emily Kajioka
Paulette Tercier Viktoria Khamzina
Barry Price*
Brenda Thibeault Mary Kredba
Susan Stevens*
Sue Thomas Barbara Majer
1000+ Hours Trevor Tsang Heather Mandziuk
Bob Carruthers Kacia Yu Ana Mendes
Gaynor Jordan Kellie Nielsen
Deborah Markle Jessica Peart
Albert Steer Darcy Pickard
Paul Steeves Jane Thomsing*
Dick Torry* *Retired or leave of absence in 2008
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WRA’s Consulting Veterinarian
By Glenn Boyle, Ph.D., Executive Director
WRA is extremely fortunate to be institute many improvements in Photo: Tracy Riddell
able to rely on the expert the operations of the wildlife
consulting advice of Judith program, always imparting her
Siegert, DVM. Judith has been knowledge to the team with
volunteering her veterinary enthusiasm and a great sense of
services to WRA for almost humour. The benefits of having
twenty years, during which time “Dr. J” available to advise on the
she established her full-time telephone, or in person to carry
practice in Port Moody in 1997. out operations or specialist
Judith’s ability to contribute so training workshops, provides
effectively as a veterinarian to WRA with access to expert
WRA’s wildlife program comes resources that would be very
from her varied involvement with difficult to replicate. The team is
the Association since 1989 in the very grateful for Judith’s
roles of Care Centre volunteer and continued advice and support,
staff member, and Board member. and we thank her for helping us Judith Siegert, DVM
As a result of her applied to remain a leading organization WRA’s consulting veterinarian
background and experience at in rehabilitating wildlife and
WRA, Judith has helped to promoting their welfare.
WRA Spring/Summer 2009 6 www.wildliferescue.ca
WRA Timeline
The History of WRA Wildlife Rescue Association of BC
In the 1970s, increasing numbers of orphaned and injured wildlife were appearing on the doorsteps of
veterinarians and the BC SPCA, who were not specially trained or equipped to care for these animals. With
the growing requests for aid, crisis centres were being started, many out of the homes of those with a passion
for wildlife. The demand continued to increase as the developing Lower Mainland expanded. In 1979, a
group of individuals formed a society devoted to wildlife and on July 19th of that same year, the Lower
Mainland Wildlife Rescue Association was incorporated and established in the Nature House at Burnaby
Lake. Some of the initial founders included Dan Mulligan, Jeff Lawson, David Jackson, Joley Aldam-
Switzer, Linda Chandler and Rose McGavin.
1980s 1990s 2000s
May 1980: The Lower Mainland 1990: 300 birds admitted as a 2001-2002: WRA receives two
Wildlife Rescue Association result of an oil spill. A separate generous bequests from Lucy
opens for the summer months treatment centre is set up at the Grace Davies and Flora Alexandra
with three part-time staff and PNE in partnership with the BC Gray that allow WRA to start an
numerous volunteers.The first SPCA.Volunteers from all over Endowment Fund.
patient is an orphaned mallard B.C. come to provide assistance. 2003: Chevron Canada Ltd.
duckling. Fall 1990: WRA hosts the sponsors development of a video
1982: Annual caseload of 800, International Wildlife Rehabilitators’ about the work of WRA.
mainly orphaned birds. Shell Can- Council (IWRC) conference; one of 2003: WRA rehabilitates a
ada provides an initial grant to the first held in Canada. wolverine. This is the first instance
help maintain operations. 1991: The Foster Fur & Feathers of a wolverine being treated at a
1984: WRA hires Mike Suzuki as program is established by Bill rehabilitation centre in North
the first full-time employee; Susan Marshall, Board Member. America.
Dougans (Herunter) replaces Mike 1992: Construction of the Raptor 2003: The TD Friends of the
in fall of 1985. Flight Cage is made possible by Environment supports WRA
May 1985: The association is the Cedric Metcalfe Foundation, education initiative.
renamed to WRA Wildlife Rescue The Vancouver Foundation, The 2004: Annual average caseload of
Association of BC and the centre Rotary Club of North Vancouver 3,300 and fielding an average of
opens year-round. and members and donors of WRA. 12,000 public inquiries about
1985: WRA treats 52 birds soiled 1992: The Habitat Garden that was wildlife.
with linseed oil from a train spill. started by Mary Kate Woodward 2005: WRA’s proactive strategy to
1985: Liz Thunstrom becomes a and Helen Smith and made inform the public with television
part-time employee and remains possible with a grant from and print media results in less
as Animal Care Committee Chair Environment Canada, is officially unnecessary human intervention
today. opened in the spring by the Mayor bringing in young birds, and almost
1987: WRA treats 150 of 600 of Burnaby. 400 fewer cases over 2004.
waterfowl affected by an oil spill. 1993: A bequest from Joan Gunn 2006: With support from Vancouver
August 1987: WRA moves to its enables expansion of the Care Foundation and Chevron Canada
new location on Glencarin Drive. Centre exam room. Ltd., WRA adds a new songbird
1988: With support from Chevron 1993: Waterfowl Rehabilitation Pen aviary in dedication to the memory
Canada Ltd., the Care Centre and is complete with funding from of Hal Finan (WRA volunteer).
aviaries are built and completed in Trans Mountain Pipe Line 2007: WRA assists rehabilitating
summer of 1988. Company. oiled wildlife when a pipeline
1988: WRA begins bird banding — 1993: Thanks to a grant from the accident creates a large spill of
one of the first few centres in Marshlands Trust Fund, Marshland crude oil in the Burrard Inlet.
North America ever authorized to Swan Pen is completed. 2008: Patients treated reaches
band rehabilitated birds. This 1996: Completion of Mammal Pen. 65,000 representing 292 species.
program continues today. 1996: Washpad built with funding 2009: WRA’s 30th anniversary!
1988: WRA treats and releases from Bryan Fleming and Grizzly
the first endangered species ad- Construction.
mitted to WRA—a burrowing owl. 1999: WRA’s 20th anniversary!
www.wildliferescue.ca WRA Spring/Summer 2009 7
Success Stories
Grounded Grebe Gets Off
Lightly
By Linda Bakker, M.A., Wildlife Rehabilitator & Volunteer Coordinator
Western grebes (Aechmophorus need excellent
Photo: Tracy Riddell
occidentalis) reside on lakes and waterproofing to
ponds most of the year, moving stay warm on water,
to coastal waters when inland but can quickly
waters freeze in the winter. As true develop comp-
aquatic birds, they are not lications if kept off
equipped to spend time on land. water. To meet this
If they mistake wet fields for challenge, the grebe Rehabilitated Western grebe is released in Port Moody
lakes, when they land, they are was kept on warm
unable to take off. water indoorsM while his body and to build muscle strength. In
temperature was closely mon- another two days, he had gained
In late January, a grebe was found itored, allowing him to preen weight and his diving abilities
grounded in a Coquitlam field by feathers and improve water- were excellent. After less than a
a staff member from Peace of proofing as the water temperature week, he was ready to be released
Mind Pet Service, who brought was gradually lowered. into Burrard Inlet at Port Moody,
the bird to WRA the next day. as his satisfied finder and WRA
The grebe was very thin, slightly After three days, he was ready for staff looked on.
dehydrated, and had comp- the larger outdoor conditioning
romised waterproofing. Grebes pool to continue waterproofing
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Towhee Spotted On Road
By Kira Baker, Wildlife Rehabilitator
In late February, a spotted lesion was also
towhee (Pipilo maculatus) was found adhered at
brought to WRA after being the keel, or stern-
Photo: Paul Steeves
found on the street in West um, of the towhee,
Vancouver, where it had likely which signified that
been hit by a car. there was an open-
ing along the keel
The bird was treated for several that was exposing
days for damage to the central the bone. Staff
Spotted towhee prior to release
nervous system caused by the began applying a
impact. The towhee had also topical ointment
developed subcutaneous emph- and eventually the lesion came it had been originally found.
ysema, which occurs when an air off. Three small sutures closed
sac is ruptured and slowly releases the wound.
air under the skin, forming a Spotted towhees are ground foragers, often
observed in places with thick shrubs and
bubble. While the air was Healing progressed very well over
dry thickets. Towhees have a distinct two
gradually absorbed by the body, the next few days, and after -footed backwards-scratching hop and
medication was given to prevent spending time convalescing in the then pounce on anything they’ve uncover-
respiratory problems and outdoor gazebo aviary, the
Ju ed, such as seeds and small invertebrates,
infection. During this time, a towhee was released near where which they feed on.
WRA Spring/Summer 2009 8 www.wildliferescue.ca
WRA Rehabilitating Wildlife Since 1979
Valentine’s Day at WRA
By Jane Thomsing, Care Centre Liaison
This year, Valentine’s Day got off reduce waterproofing, which in
to a bad start for a varied thrush turn, affects thermoregulation.
(Ixoreus naevius) in North Removal of the thrush’s damaged
Vancouver, when he hit a window feathers helped to stimulate the
and fell to the ground, unable to re-growth of new feathers, which
Photo: Paul Steeves
fly. Fortunately, the homeowner developed fully within six weeks.
saw the incident and quickly This was good news as the thrush
brought the injured bird to could now be moved to an
WRA’s Care Centre. outdoor aviary, where stress levels
would be reduced and his recovery
Luckily, the trauma of the completed. Varied thrush recovering from
window collision had not done a window collision
any permanent damage, and over In April, the thrush was ready for
the next month the thrush received release, and was taken by one of
The American robin is a similar species to
lots of attention towards treating our transport volunteers back to the varied thrush, but lacks the thrush’s
minor wounds and feather his North Vancouver neigh- characteristic orange eyestripe, black or grey
damage. Feather damage can bourhood. We hoped that he waistband and pale wing stripe markings.
create serious problems for birds. would find his valentine
In addition to creating flight somewhere nearby before the end
difficulties, damaged feathers can of the breeding season!
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Three Bandits, Band Together
By Gabriela Halas, Wildlife Rehabilitator
Seven people, three kennels, and yogurt, ground meat,
a beautiful warm April day in a and sweet fruits such
Burnaby Park. Park visitors were as banana – all proved
Photo: Tracy Riddell
surely wondering what was popular, and soon
happening as we searched for the more regular diets
perfect release site for three were introduced as
raccoons (Procyon lofor) that their teeth began to
originally came to WRA as grow. Despite a few
orphans last summer. early climbing acci-
One of the three raccoons over-wintering at WRA
dents, these inquis-
In July 2008, two sibling raccoons itive youngsters
were found huddled together with showed a keen desire to explore, remain at WRA for the fall and
no mother in sight in North learn, and mess about! winter seasons.
Vancouver. Around the same
time, another raccoon was found An unusual facet to the care of After nine months at WRA, and
on the road in New Westminster. these raccoons was over-winter- with natural foods becoming
All three were tiny but feisty, and ing. Being so young and small available in local parks and
were soon ready to move outside when they arrived, and not being woodlands, the raccoons were
to the raccoon enclosure. Initial large enough for release after two finally released together. A
diets–including baby food, months, the youngsters needed to moment to cherish!
www.wildliferescue.ca WRA Spring/Summer 2009 9
Success Stories
The Case Of The Sneezing
Skunk By Courtney Cox, B.Sc.,Wildlife Rehabilitator
In early April, the SPCA brought nose were starting to
a striped skunk (Mephitis become infected.
mephitis) to WRA after it had been Further examination
found unable to walk on a to determine the
Photo: Tracy Riddell
Vancouver street. An initial cause of the laboured
examination revealed no fractures, breathing identified a
but a swollen head and minor metal pellet (from a
forehead abrasions suggested an pellet gun) beneath
impact of some kind, such as a the abrasion scab!
vehicle collision. Surgical removal of a pellet from skunk’s head
Surgical removal of
The skunk received treatment for the pellet, which had been near or demonstrated the ability to
Photo credit:Tracy
central nervous system trauma, had possibly passed through the maneuver very well. Completely
during which WRA rehabilitators nasal passage, solved the problem. recovered from the trauma, the
noticed that his initially raspy The head swelling reduced and the skunk was released after about one
Riddell
breathing was progressing quickly skunk stopped sneezing entirely month in care with a second chance
to a more advanced state of within just two days. Soon after, at a perilous urban life.
wheezing. In addition, the abra- the skunk was able to move to an
sions along the top of the skunk’s outdoor enclosure, where he
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Flicker’s Window Woes
By Sarah Moulaison, B.Sc.,Wildlife Rehabilitator
Flickers and other woodpeckers schedule of tube feeding was
Photo credit: Tracy Riddell
are often admitted to WRA after started to enable it to maintain
window collisions, and such was weight. When the flicker
the case for a female Northern continued to refrain from eating
flicker (Colaptes auratus) brought in a larger enclosure, a diagnostic
to WRA in mid-April after being fecal test was performed, which
found lying on her side, unable to revealed a medium-level parasite
fly or move. An initial load. The flicker received an anti-
examination at the Care Centre parasitic treatment for this and
Photo: Tracy Riddell
found the bird was in good overall continued to be tube-fed over the
condition, but a precautionary next week, after which a second
anti-inflammatory treatment was fecal test came back clear and the
started to prevent swelling and bird began to eat!
reduce central nervous system
trauma. After a successful flight test, she Northern flicker recuperating from a
was acclimated and moved to an window collision
The following day, there were no outdoor aviary. A further five days
residual signs of injury, but later, the bird was thriving and where she had been found.
because the bird was not eating, a ready to be released in a park near
WRA Spring/Summer 2009 10 www.wildliferescue.ca
In Memory
With the tributes listed below, donors have remembered Orphaned Wildlife
those who have had special meaning in their lives.
Buddy (with the heart of a lion) Gordon F. Randle You can help prevent orphaning by pruning trees
Evelyn Booth Fred Taylor and shrubs during non-breeding season only and
Hannelore Frohloff Margaret & Phillip Town keeping cats indoors. If you find a mammal living
Toivo Olavi Tapio (Oliver) Huotari Athan Vergides under your porch during the spring and summer
Jack Maclean Frederick Wain months, it is likely that there may also be a litter of
Putt Putt Vernon Woods babies living there too. We recommend waiting until
the babies are mobile and taking trips outside their
den before attempting to take action to discourage
Charity Car Program their presence by the use of noise and light and
securing access to the area. This will ensure the
2008 Community Support
Charity Car Program supports WRA! Donate your animals are given the best chance of survival.
old vehicle and AA - Wayne’s (Wong’s) Towing Truly Orphaned?
Tracy Riddell
Photo credit:
will recycle it for you. You will receive a minimum Often the animal’s parents are nearby, and while
$50 tax deductible receipt for the assessed value of the animal may appear abandoned, the behaviour
your car and net proceeds are donated to WRA. is part of the
species’ natural life
Call the donation hotline at history. To help
determine if a bird or
604.321.2277 mammal is truly
Photo: Tracy Riddell
orphaned, refer to the
following tips:
Birds Orphaned mallard ducklings
Depending on its in care at WRA
age, a bird may or
may not be naturally living on the ground and not
require assistance.
• A nestling bird is naked, or partially feathered. It
will be unable to stand and belongs in its nest. Try
to locate the nest and return the baby to it. If the
parent does not return within 2 hours, contact
WRA. The baby may be orphaned.
• A fledgling bird is well-feathered, able to stand on
its own and hop around, but may not be able to fly
well. It is normal for a fledgling bird to be on the
ground. If you see the parent nearby, leave the baby
bird alone and keep the area safe from cats and
other predators. If the parent does not return within
2 hours, contact WRA. The baby may be orphaned.
Mammals
Unless there is a definite sign of injury, wait 12-24
hours to give mom the opportunity to relocate the
baby before intervening.
Questions?
If you have any questions, please call WRA’s Care
Centre @ 604.526.7275 for further advice or visit our
website at www.wildliferescue.ca.
www.wildliferescue.ca WRA Spring/Summer 2009 11
Photo: Tracy Riddell
Photo: Tracy Riddell
Photo: Paul Steeves
This infant Virginia opossum rests against After colliding with a window, this cedar
its mother while she receives treatment for a waxwing is recovering at WRA from
head wound. In her pouch were eight others. bruising to its chest and sternum.
Photo: Tracy Riddell
Photo: Paul Steeves
An orphaned robin gets a helping hand at A rare admission to WRA was this turkey These orphaned killdeer will remain in
WRA. The first baby bird of the season was vulture which was likely hit by a vehicle. It care until the end of summer when they are
admitted to the care facility on April17th. was successfully treated and released. able to thrive on their own in the wild.
Celebrating 30 years of caring for injured,
~ orphaned and pollution-damaged wildlife.
~
WRA Wish List
Food Supplies Medical/Technical
Fresh fruits and Supplies*
vegetables (call first) Curagel wound
Frozen blackberries dressing
and blueberries Gauze (2” x 2”, 4” x 4”)
Frozen herring, Latex/Nitrile exam
salmon, smelt and gloves
trout Syringes (1cc, 10cc
Live clams and 60cc)
Nuts (no peanuts) Tegaderm
White millet *Check our website for a
more extensive medical
Household Items
supplies list.
Bleach 5L,unscented
Garbage bags,
industrial size Outdoor Supplies
Duratubs 76 litre or
half barrel tubs
Miscellaneous
Garden hose
Canadian Tire money
Garden trowels (3-5)
Fans (2), 16”
Greenery (evergreen)
Mosquito netting
Hose splitters/nozzles
Small whiteboard
Plastic kid pools
(locker size)
Soaker hoses (2-3)
White board markers
Wood chipper
WRA Spring/Summer 2009 12 www.wildliferescue.ca
Shopping at Thrifty Foods is an easy way to support WRA Wildlife
Rescue Association of BC and help raise funds for the purchase of a
walk-in cooler, which will provide on-site refrigerated storage for the
many perishable items required for WRA’s operation.
1. Phone 604.526.2747, or e-mail tracy@wildliferescue.ca and ask for a
Thrifty Foods Fundraising Smile Card.
2. Take the Smile Card with you to Thrifty Foods when you go grocery shopping.
Ask the cashier to load any amount you wish onto the card before paying for
your grocery order. Pay for the card load with cash, debit card or credit card.*
3. Pay for your grocery order with the Smile Card.
It’s that simple!
*Thrifty Foods will donate 5% of the amount loaded on your Smile Card to the fundraising group. There is
absolutely no cost to you. When the card is running low, load it again to continue to support WRA every
time you shop!
WRA Merchandise Special Thanks
•Wildlife cards: 3/$10 or $4 each City of Burnaby: Donated and delivered 11 cubic
•Tote bags: $5 metres of wood chips.
•Jane Ray’s Wildlife Rescue City of Vancouver: Donated and delivered 11
Series Books by Diane Hayes: cubic metres of compost.
$9.50 each Greater Vancouver Food Bank and Coldax
•Mugs: $10 Refrigerated Courier Service: Donated and
•Baseball caps: $12 delivered laundry detergent and bathroom supplies.
Jan Dobson and Linda Saunders: Donated
•Garden Hats: $20 numerous Care Centre Wish List items.
N.A.T.S. Nursery: Donated a portion of the delivery
fee for purchased trees.
Noreen Brox and Roberge Trucking: Purchased
and donated delivery of 7 yards of crushed granite
for walkways.
Scouts Canada 21st Highlanders Burnaby
Scout Group: Raised $500 for WRA at Pitch-in-
Day and Community Carnival.
Silver Back Tree Works: Donated tree pruning
Available for purchase at WRA. services.
Proceeds from merchandise sales will help injured, Standard Building Supplies: Donated goods and
orphaned and pollution-damaged wildlife. delivery for raptor pen materials.
Still Creek Press: Donated WRA 30-year
For a full selection of available items, including anniversary letterhead.
t-shirts, golf shirts and hooded sweatshirts see:
www.wildliferescue.ca or call 604.526.2747.
www.wildliferescue.ca WRA Spring/Summer 2009 13
WRA Past, Present & Future
(Continued from page 1)
Throughout this time, WRA One example of WRA’s dev-
continued to grow and develop, elopment plans is a replacement
improving the number and enclosure for raccoons, slated for
training of staff and volunteers, construction in the Fall 2009 (see
and expanding its capacity through draft plans below). This facility
capital projects, such as the Finan and other planned developments
Aviary, which was completed in will enable WRA to deliver
2007 and has provided much- improved programs and services WRA’s original Care Facility
needed facilities for increasing for wildlife and the community. on Piper Avenue
numbers of songbirds.
Despite the progress that WRA years suggest that the population
In recent years, the ability of WRA has made in providing leadership of the GVRD will continue to
to continue delivering its mission in rehabilitating wildlife and in grow by almost 50%, which is
has been strengthened by the promoting the welfare of wild more than one million people!
successful development of diverse animals in the urban environment While it is difficult to imagine
and stable revenues to support of the Lower Mainland, the how such population growth –
programs and services. This has factors that brought the over 30,000 people each year –
created the opportunity for WRA organization into existence have can be considered sustainable, it
to develop longer-term plans for not changed over time. To is much easier to see how the
future growth, which meet the illustrate, in the last thirty years, urban development and
strategic needs of the organization the population of the Greater pollution that results will affect
going forward. In 2009, the new Vancouver Regional District our local environment and
WRA Strategic Plan defines the (GVRD) has almost doubled to further diminish the natural
main strategic issues that must be the present estimated size of about habitat available for wildlife in
addressed, and the ways in which 2.3 million – that’s almost as the region.
we will be able to realize a renewed many as the 2.6 million people
vision of being able to continually living in the whole of B.C. in In the future, there will clearly
improve the welfare of urban 1979! Provincial government be a persisting demand for
wildlife. projections for the next thirty WRA’s services on behalf of the
wild animals that share common
living space in our urban
communities. It will take much
time and effort, and many
people and resources, for us to
be able to continue to improve
the welfare of urban wildlife, but
that is exactly what has brought
us to this point. I think Rose
McGavin and the other co-
founders of WRA would be the
first to point out that our
previous experience will be
helpful the second time around!
Draft plans of replacement raccoon facility
WRA Spring/Summer 2009 14 www.wildliferescue.ca
Foster Me!
By Marcy Potter, Wildlife Rehabilitator
Special Squirrel Surprise!
On Friday, February 13th, a surprise then that she did not want
female grey squirrel (Sciurus us to examine them…at all!
carolinensis) was brought into care
after being caught in a rat trap. She So in the following days, we
had suffered central nervous adopted a hands-off approach,
Photo: Paul Steeves
system trauma and was given letting mom raise her young ones
Photo: Paul Steeves
medication to reduce swelling of and monitoring the babies’
her brain. progress from a distance. As the
weeks went by, they slowly got
After recovering inside the Care their fur and their eyes opened.
Centre, she was moved to an More recently, an orphaned grey Infant grey squirrels born in WRA
outdoor enclosure. For some squirrel came into care; he was the care to rescued mother
reason, she was feistier than the same age as the three youngsters,
and we wondered if mom would likely be released mid-summer,
average squirrel we get in care, and
adopt one more? Happily, she after being fully weaned.
it was only after a routine check
of her enclosure a few days later took him under her very pro-
that we realized why: She had tective care, and he is gaining
given birth to three babies! No weight with the others. They will
Foster Fur & Feathers
My contribution to foster care: By becoming a Foster Fur and Feathers sponsor, you are joining our
efforts to save an injured or orphaned animal. Consider giving a gift of
$25 Bushtit caring to yourself or to someone you know. Each fosterer receives a
$25 Black-capped Chickadee Foster Certificate with a photograph and educational information about
$25 Rufous Hummingbird the sponsored species. You may choose either a printed certificate,
$25 Pine Siskin which will be mailed to you or to your gift recipient, or an electronic
$25 Northwestern Crow certificate if you wish to save paper.
Photographed By Paul Steeves
$25 Rock Pigeon Printed Certificate Electronic Certificate
$35 Varied Thrush
$35 Black-headed Grosbeak Name:____________________________________________
$35 Violet-green Swallow Address: _________________________________________
$35 Baby Bird - Altricial City/Prov.Postal Code:_______________________________
Phone: _______________ Email: _____________________
$40 Mallard Duckling
$40 Steller’s Jay If this is a gift:
$40 Grey Squirrel Name(s) on certificate:_______________________________
$40 Bufflehead Address: _________________________________________
$40 Western Gull City/Prov.Postal Code:_______________________________
$50 Pied-billed Grebe Phone: _______________ Email: _____________________
$50 Northern Flicker
Payment:
$50 Pileated Woodpecker My cheque for $________ is enclosed or, please charge my:
$100 Little Brown Bat Visa Mastercard American Express
$100 Striped Skunk Card#:_________________________ Expiry date: ________
$150 Saw-whet Owl Total amount: _________Signature: ____________________
$150 Raccoon
$250 Great Blue Heron Donations are tax deductible. Please make cheque payable to:
WRA, 5216 Glencarin Drive, Burnaby, BC V5B 3C1
$250 American Beaver
www.wildliferescue.ca WRA Spring/Summer 2009 15
WRA Wildlife Rescue Association of BC
5216 Glencarin Drive
Burnaby BC
V5B 3C1
Yes, I want to support WRA
I wish to make a donation: WRA Wildlife Rescue Association of BC respects the
One time…………$______ support of all our donors; we do not trade or sell our
Monthly…………..$______ donors’ names. Registered charity # 131373490RR0001
(post-dated cheques/credit card) Name:_________________________________________
Address: ______________________________________
I wish to become a member: City/Prov.: _____________________________________
New Postal Code: ___________ Phone: _________________
Renewal Email: _________________________________________
Gift Membership
Individual - $25/year If this is a gift:
Family/couple - $35/year Name:_________________________________________
Senior/student - $15/year Address: ______________________________________
Life - $250 City/Prov.: _____________________________________
Business - $250/year Postal Code: ___________ Phone: _________________
Business life - $1,000 Email: _________________________________________
Payment:
Request for information: My cheque for $________ is enclosed or, please charge my: Photos: Paul Steeves
I would like information on: Visa Mastercard American Express
Volunteer Opportunities Card#:_________________________ Expiry date: _______
Education Programs Total amount: _________Signature: ___________________
Planned Giving: Leaving a Donations/memberships are tax deductible. Please make cheque payable to:
Legacy for Wildlife WRA, 5216 Glencarin Drive, Burnaby, BC V5B 3C1
WRA Spring/Summer 2009 16 www.wildliferescue.ca
