Janice Barbary, songbird rehabber, calms a juvenile Hooded Oriole in preparation for feeding – photo by Ann Westling

GRASS VALLEY, Calif. February 23, 2018 – Join Wildlife Rehabilitation and Release (WR&R) on Saturday, March 10 for the annual Wildlife Seminar and Volunteer Welcome Meeting for new and returning volunteers. “This is one of the most fascinating meetings of the year as we delve into all things wild!” said Bev Myers, President of WR&R. “Have you ever rescued a bird after it flew into your window and wondered how to help it? Has your child ever brought you an injured animal and wanted you to save it? This meeting will help you learn how to help and who to go to for assistance,” continued Myers.

The orientation meeting will be held at the United Methodist Church in Grass Valley from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with registration at 9:30. Rehabilitation team leaders will highlight care and treatment techniques in assisting songbirds, raptors, small mammals, and bats. Various other volunteer opportunities will be identified as well. The Wildlife Ambassadors including a Red-tailed Hawk, American Crow, Barn Owl, Western Screech-owl, Great Horned Owl and various bats will be on hand for up-close viewing.

Paula Elliot, small mammal rehabber, holds young opossum orphan – photo by Ann Westling

In the afternoon, experts will share new findings and fascinating information about wildlife issues. Paul Tebbel, crane biologist, past Executive Director of the Effie Yeaw Nature Center and past manager of Audubon’s Rowe Sanctuary on the Platte River will delight us with “The Private Lives of Cranes”. Paul has been working with cranes since 1976 and will share glimpses into their behavior, body language and communication. In addition, Ben Nuckolls will give a presentation on Injured Wildlife Restraint.

“This action-packed meeting is an excellent opportunity to meet others who have a passion for wildlife and to learn more about our local wild animals and birds as well as how you can help,” concluded Myers. In 2017, WR&R treated over 800 songbirds, raptors, small mammals, and bats.

Lauren Satterlee, raptor rehabber, readies young Red-tailed Hawk for release – photo by Laurel Gunderson

Registration fees include lunch and one raffle ticket. For current members, the cost is $10 and for nonmembers, $15. Wildlife Rehabilitation and Release (WR&R) is the State and Federally permitted organization for rehabilitating wild mammals and birds in Nevada County.

What: “Get to Know Wildlife Rehabilitation and Release” Wildlife Seminar and Recruitment Meeting
Special Feature: The Wildlife Ambassador hawk, crow, owls, and bats will be on hand to great new volunteers
Where: United Methodist Church, 236 S Church St, Grass Valley
When: Saturday – March 10 from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm (registration begins at 9:30 am – be sure to arrive early to register and get a good seat!)
For More Information: Wildlife Rehabilitation and Release – http://www.cawildlife911.org/