fbpx

Recovered Red-tailed Hawk, Ducks, Bunnies and Doves Return to the Wild

Back to the Wild 2020 Four lucky Ohio Wildlife Center supporters won the chance to help set recovered animals free in August following the first-ever Back to the Wild online raffle. Due to the restrictions of COVID-19 regarding large group gatherings, this annual event that raises funds for the Wildlife Hospital pivoted to a new format this summer. 

The four raffle winners and their small group of guests each attended an individual timed session where they participated in wildlife releases and created animal enrichment items for the resident Animal Ambassadors at the Cook Road Education Center.    

The animals that were released, including a Red-tailed Hawk, Eastern cottontail rabbits, mallard ducks, wood ducks, and mourning doves, all had been treated at the Wildlife Hospital and recovered.

“Helping with the releases was the highlight of my summer,” noted Suzanne von Valtier, who brought her brother, sister and nephew to join her for her session.  They participated in releasing the hawk and  several ducks.

Back to the Wild 2020For Tim King, observing the raccoon ambassadors enjoy their enrichment treats was a memorable part of the day. “It was very informative, interactive and enjoyable,” he said. “It was an aptly titled event.”

Jennifer Mackanos and her group made food enrichment boxes for Penelope, the new fox ambassador.  “My favorite part was watching her tear into the boxes we made for her,” she said. 

To date, the Wildlife Hospital has treated more than 7,500 patients in 2020, the highest number for the Center in its history. It requires nearly $450,000 a year to operate the hospital and provide full rehabilitation care to the patients during their treatment and recovery.  

The online raffle raised $5,825 to support the hospital and 268 raffle tickets were sold.

Back to the Wild 2020
On left: Tim King and his family attended their first Back to the Wild event in August; On right: Suzanne von Valtier and her family helped release a Red-tailed Hawk.

 

Photo Credit: Chris Brinkman

Top