Daily Small Miracles

The staff at Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center cares for many species each year. Spring and summer long days (12 hrs) are worked to make sure each animal is returned healthy and to the proper habitat.
While in captivity, we are fortunate to see their individual uniqueness and beauty. This video reflects a small minute in our day witnessing small miracles.

Namaste

Dr. Diane is checking on the sedated Fox Squirrel that is waking up from anesthesia. The patient was found on Blacksburg Road by Judy and John Loope.

Good News!

Good news! The Screech owl rescued at Firestone in southwest county that presented with head trauma is recuperating and eating well.

Please do not shoot

This patient was shot! The staff is sadden by this news, but angry at the unknown felon who shot this gorgeous creature.
We suspected the Red-shouldered hawk was shot and before X-rays could be taken the precious hawk passed. What sickness makes anyone feel compelled to shoot our beautiful wildlife? The incident was reported to the wildlife crime line and is under investigation. Shooting protected species is a felony that includes fines and time in jail since hawks are protected under federal law.

Great Horned

5 patients today

It was a busy afternoon, five patients arrived. Eastern Screech owl was rescued at Firestone in southwest county, Red-shouldered hawk from Salem, and a caught by dog Dark-eyed junco. Barred and Eastern Screech came in from a veterinarian in Lebanon that are headed to the WCV. They all have substantial injuries.

Wood duck Skype’s?

Wood duck Skype’s?
No, we just used the I phone to try and help the single wood duck hear and see familiar sounds and sights. The wood duck was not as impressed with the setup as we were!

Goodbye Grace

The staff is mourning the passing of Grace, our education Red-tailed hawk. She had some medical issues the last two weeks, but her sudden decline yesterday was a shock. Staff was by her side with tears in our eyes attempting to save her. The staff, Diane and Judy will especially miss this sweet lady . We are forever thankful for her service as an ambassador for Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center.
Grace is now soaring the skies..
Photos by Audie Ferris