As it enters its busiest of seasons, the Wild Animal Rehabilitation Centre in Metchosin is in urgent need of greenery for its critters in care.
The BC SPCA site admits animals all year long, but during the spring and summer times, patient numbers take a jump primarily because most wild species have babies during this time, leaving both parents and young more vulnerable. Last year, the agency treated 2,459 animals.
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As summer kicks off, Wild ARC volunteers find they’re particularly low on cedar and fir, used as enrichment for all kinds of patients big and small – from bushtits to deer fawns.
This time of year is also busy for birds with many migrating to warmer areas to breed and raise babies. Top reasons for them to come into care include orphans, collisions with windows and pet-cat interactions.
As they were getting ready for release recently, Wild ARC staff banded a dark-eyed junco that came into care when its nest was destroyed. When banded birds are seen later, the data helps wildlife scientists monitor migratory bird populations, the agency explained, sharing the story on social media.
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Those looking to help, without trimming their trees, can donate to buy food and medical supplies for animals on the road to recovery. Call 250-478-9453 to donate by phone, mail a cheque to 1020 Malloch Rd., Victoria BC, V9C 4G9 or donate online at spca.bc.ca. As a registered charity, donors can get a tax receipt.
