2021 ANNUAL REPORT

In March of 2020 the world as we knew it changed. Operating your local community supported nonprofit which has the mission to conserve the local wildlife through rehabilitation and education has become exponentially more challenging.

 

2020 was the year of the Rat. We had to be hard working, ambitions, strong willed, and intelligent. 2021 was the year of the Ox. I researched the meanings in January 2020 and almost heard ominous music playing in the background as I read the description. ‘The year is one when we will fully feel the weight of our responsibility’. The year when it is necessary to ‘double the efforts to accomplish anything’! Now that the year has come to a close – I have to agree.

 For 21 months we have been experiencing event cancellations, local business restrictions, volun- teers inability to assist, lack of ability to provide educational experiences, inability to rapidly respond to telephone calls for assistance, record numbers of patients and telephone calls. The natural habitats and inhabitants are experiencing wild fires, triple digit heat, drought, urbanization and sprawl, pesticide and herbicide use … just to name a few.   

Total Number of cases = 80  (in 78 in 2020 (& 2 interns) & in 2019 = 57 (& no interns),)

(excluding the telephone consults who were never delivered or had refused due to being at capacity)

 (estimate 30% more need AHWF but we had 60% less people).

Third year in a row we had to ‘close our doors’ and refuse patients for a time.

 

 Total individual animal patients = 119.

(30 different bird species and 8 different mammal species)   68% release rate for total individuals.

 

Total telephone calls =  OVER 600 calls from citizens with questions and concerns!

we recorded 450 telephone calls by July 31^st  2021

(360 total calls in 2020 with 2 interns and few volunteers)

(440 calls in 2019 with no interns but 6 regular volunteer)

 (320 calls in 2018 with interns & volunteers)

 

Total volunteer hours = estimated 4,150 (almost exclusively direct and indirect animal care)

Thank you for all those who continued to financially (contributions and in-kind) support the mission to keep Idaho WILD!

Ronda (not only do you support financially but also have incredible understanding and kindness with allowing your employee to keep a very unusual work schedule), Keith, Jerilyn & Derek, Jacque & Timothy, Ivana, Susie, Jackie, Robert & Patricia, Lynda, Lacy, Del & Norma,  Brenda, Darcy, LaBelle, Christopher, Steven, Raymond, Katherine, Shayla, Julia, Lynn, Heather, Vera, Jessica, Star, Edith, Jennifer, Caralea, Cory, Judy, Emma, Vina, Lori, Sue, Margaret, Wendy, Mona & Cary, Joyce, Kasey, David, Paul & Janie, Richard & Kristen, Roberta, Gordon, Tom & Linda, Karen, Ed & Janie, Oscar, AnnaMarie, Sharon, Jacque, Patti, & CFMC

 

Great appreciation for all those who created FB birthday fundraisers this year and to all those who use the Yokes or Fred Meyers community rewards, Amazon smile or wishlist, Ebay charity works, ishop, benefit mobile app, Chewy, EScrip, or belong to any of the programs (Purium health, wine cellars, bird watchers digest etc.) where your purchases contribute to help local wildlife.  A very special thank you to Angela who connected with organizers of the Sandpoint Farmers Market and once each month set up the table and spoke to those citizens interested in our mission. I also wish to thank those who baked the goodies for the one bake sale at the Farmers Market.  Heart felt thank you’ s are extended to all those who have worked tirelessly to create the Nature Walk. Al & Lori, Bryan, Gabriella, Shiloh, Carol & Ed, George, Kevin, Mona, James, Dave, Jamie, Sam, Perky, Jake, Ed, Amanda

 

Special gratitude for those citizens who made time in their schedules to donate a few hours and lend a hand. I will openly admit I could not have gotten through without your support.

Angela drove weekly from Careywood & coordinated the monthly table at the Farmers Market.

Jessica despite a job with long hours & active teenagers at home committed one evening a week.

Teresa works out of town at a stressful occupation but spent one day every other week with AHWF. This was her therapy time she said.

Michelle has a full schedule and many obligations and yet made a few hours a week for wildlife. Jennifer wanted to learn about wild animal rehabilitation. She arranged her schedule to ensure she spent at least two full days a month at AHWF.

April attended the wildlife workshop, spent time learning at AHWF and became our first Nature Nurse for a few patients.

Krista & Chris heard the call for help and were able to lend a hand a few times.

Lacy and husband Jan dropped everything one Saturday to provide vital support. 

LaDonna, Tamarie, Lori, Alana, Darcy, Ryanne & Hannah, Emma, Lillie each made time in their schedules to help their wild native neighbors for a few hours.

Kim for spending six hours & Brenda (and husband Ken)  for spending more than 12 hours as a taxi for three juvenile hummingbirds needing to get to the Bird Center in Boise.

Diane spent time writing letters to manufacturers and online researching.

Jeannene who despite having two full time jobs still made time to transport patients in need.

Ashleigh & Ebba both willingly jumped in their cars and became a taxis’ for wild birds in need.

Nick for donating his time to accomplish a few construction projects.

my friend Irish for her time with patient consultation and rescuing me when I was literally left holding the bag .

Thank you (intern #3) Hannah for your dedication and willingness to power through solo.

 

January

Continuing care for the Merlin (small raptor) injured in the Autumn of 2020.

Veterinary clinic called January 1 with a little bird needing out help.

Rework the Volunteer application

Board meeting (online)

Purchase Oxygen concentration machine

Create Bylaws for the newly formed Association of Idaho Rehabbers for wildlife (AIR for wildlife)

Create article for Daily Bee about combined efforts of PWRR, RFP & AHWF

Create article for neighbors insert of the daily bee – Baby its cold outside

Begin tidy up of the animal infirmary room

No scheduled library presentations

Complete IRS 990

Complete seventh book titled IMAGINE (first edition)

researching grants and ordering necessary supplies.

handful of Calls & received over 200 emails

 

February

Continuing Merlin care

Prepare course syllabus and other materials necessary for teaching wildlife workshop

Continue animal room preparations.

Create blog articles

Attend online bat meeting

Connecting with speaker for possibility of Little Panida presentation, & Bowling and Dilunas events

Researching capital campaigns and land acquisition grants

Daily Bee article  - trio of rehabbers working together for local wildlife

One volunteer reaching out to Farmers Market coordinator asking for a place this summer

Board meeting (online)

Handful of Calls & received over 200 emails

 

March

Daily Merlin care

Sawwhet Owl patient admit

3 Gray Squirrel patients admitted (care every couple of hours 24 hours day)

Great Horned Owl patient

Pine Siskin patient

Ordering supplies and replenishing inventory

Prepare for fundraising event IdahoGives

No interns applied. recreate job posting for internship

Respond to calls and emails

Wildlife Workshop – in Moscow and Clark Fork

Webinar on Coyotes in NYC

Promote and encourage volunteerism for the spring highway clean up

No events – library, panida, bingo, bowling,

Board meeting (online)

Dozens of Calls & responding to four dozen emails

 

April

Merlin released

Gray Squirrels in care

Great Horned Owl in care

Sawhet Owl in care

House Finch nestlings admitted (every 20 – 30 minutes care for 14 hours day)

Arrange with Hays Chevron to have hats available for patrons

Replenishing teeshirts and sweatshirts and other merchandise (books, miniflashlights, lightbars, bumper stickers, keychains) at Monarch Market

Create map of Idaho with rehab centers indicated

No EarthDay event

Article in the Daily Bee

Volunteers here to complete the Nature Walk in preparation for the City Nature Challenge next month

Prepare RV for intern candidate beginning at month end.

Board meeting (online)

Several dozen Calls & responding to two dozen emails

 

May

Work on the Nature Walk in preparation for the City Nature Challenge  

Caring for many nestling songbirds (15 hrs day)

Gray Squirrel admit and care

Pine Siskin admit

Canada Goose  goslings admitted

Sawhet Owl admit

Mallard Ducklings admitted (very young – requiring close attention)

Snowshoe Hare admitted

American Robins admitted

Sparrows admitted

Great Horned Owl care

Rufus Hummingbird admitted

Chipmunks admitted (every few hours around the clock require attention)

Raccoons admit and care (every few hours 24 hours a day require milk supplements and stimulation)

Common Snipe hatchlings admitted

Evening Grosbeak patient

American Crow admitted

Update the amazon wish list

Idaho Gives online fundraising event $1,915 from 17 donors (unable to promote the bonus programs)

Bioblitz city nature challenge event – Nature Walk exposure

Letter introduction to  therapeutic laser manufacturer

Webinar about ophthalmic care

Construction company meeting regarding repairing and completing the small mammal enclosure which was started but ruined by ‘handyman’ last year

Farmers Market in Sandpoint the third Saturday through the summer (one volunteer accomplishing)

Board meeting (online)

Several dozen Calls & responding to over 100 emails

 

June

New intern was hired to assist current intern.

Pine Squirrel admit.

Snowshoe Hare admit

Hooded Merganser hatchlings admitted

Spruce Grouse admitted

Crow care

Raccoon care

Northen Flickers admitted

Ravens intake

Mallard Ducklings  care – release end month

Great Horned Owl care – transfer to wsu end of month for procedure

Chipmunks care

Striped Skunks care (six orphans the first week and six more the second week)

Nestling (junco) intake

Northern flying squirrels

Quail nestlings admitted

California Bat adult admitted

Red Crossbill admitted

House Finch admitted released mid-month

Tree swallow & Violet Green Swallows admitted (16 hours a day every 15 minutes require feeding)

American Robins care

Orange crowned warbler nestlings admitted (require feeding every twenty minutes at least 14 hours a day)

Canada goose care

Plover hatchling intake

One volunteer assisting one day

Sadly despite 40 individuals in care both interns quit the middle of the month.

Mourning the death of Animals in Distress (co-founder) Toni Hicks

Farmers Market in Sandpoint the third Saturday through the summer (one volunteer accomplishing)

One hundred seventy nine telephone calls (in 2020 we had a record of 75 (in 2019 there were only 50))

 

July

Fifty cases admitted to date (a few years ago this was our annual average)

Continuing daily care of dozen Striped skunks – release at end of month

American Robin care

Northern Flying Squirels – release end of month

Several nestling Tree Swallows admitted – released most throughout the next three weeks.

Northern flicker admit – released mid month

Chipmunk care – middle month release

Orange Crowned  Warbler care – end of month release

File interim report for grant received on behalf of RFP

Wild turkey intake and care until transfer

Long ear owl patient admitted

Vaux Swifts admitted (require feedings every 15 to 20 minutes for 16 hours every day)

American Crow patients admitted

No volunteers able to assist with the Independence Day celebrations

Mid July new intern started and will remain through mid august

File state nonprofit report

Farmers Market in Sandpoint the third Saturday through the summer (one volunteer accomplishing)

Daily Bee Neighbors Insert submission – one of the stories from the book Imagine.

Ten (10) volunteers chose days of the month to help

Dozens of Calls & over 300 emails

 

August

More than 60 cases admitted to date (a few years ago 50 was the average annual total)

Continuing care for Tree Swallow, American Crow, American Robin

Intake and care of three Ravens until release mid-month

Release one Crow – middle of the month

Care of Sparrow – release end of month

Daily care of Gray Squirrels and Pine Squirrels

Intake of Canada Goose with broken wing

Northern Flicker and Pileated Woodpecker patients admitted – end of month released.

Care of clutch of California Quail

Continuing Daily care of Vaux Swift – released end of the month.

Consulting care of (overwintering) Cedar Waxwing

Intake (& later transfer to RMBC) three juvenile Hummingbirds

Intern returned to university, third week of August

Drive to Palouse Wildlife Rescue and Rehab in Moscow – patient consultations

Seven (7) volunteers helping

Farmers Market in Sandpoint the third Saturday through the summer (one volunteer accomplishing)

KRFY morning show interview with AHWF and BOPNW founders

Board meeting (online) – first time since May

Dozens of Calls & received nearly 300 emails

 

September

77 cases admitted to date (sadly several cases had been refused due to lack of volunteer support)

Continue daily care of American Crow, American Robin,

Care for Gray Squirrels until release end of the month.

Care for pine squirrels until release early in the month.  

Clean out the Intern RV and winterize.  

Volunteers here working on a construction projects – entryway for small aviary.

Unable to obtain assistance regarding grant deadlines and applications.

Unable to obtain volunteers for highway clean up nor nature walk.

Attempted to promote and solicit help for the scarecrow contest and Halloween contest

Updated webpage – listed 2 blankets & a touring bicycle imported from Spain

No clean comedy show again nor trivia nights

Emailed construction company (met in Spring) about scheduling date for enclosure creation in 2022.

Autumn newsletter created for supporters

Agreement with University Idaho wildlife class to mentor students.

Virtual conference of wildlife rehabilitators (heroes for wildlife)

One volunteer at Sandpoint Farmers Market  (baked goods this month)

Blog article – let nature take its course 

Five dozen calls & responding to 120 emails

  

October

Daily care of American Crow and American Robin

Ordering some supplies for current patients.

Purchase used generator to ensure freezers and animal room needs are met if power failure.

Create powerpoint lecture & handout to show to university of idaho students wildlife careers class

One hour meeting with committee for a local grant to discuss our proposal for funding  - not awarded.

Several prerecorded wild animal rehabilitation webinars watched – 2^nd annual heroes for wildlife (virtual) conference

Mourning the death of the founder of Idaho Black Bear Rehab Sally Maughan.

No memorial apple pressing festival nor scarecrow contest nor costume entries.

Board meeting (online)

Three dozen calls & received nearly 200 emails

 

November

Continuing daily care for the American Robin and American Crow.

Board meeting (online)

No volunteers to respond (new phone system allows for remote access) - message machine offers clear instructions of how to locate veterinary clinics or other rehab facilities to consult with.

 

The founder has been working for twenty years, almost every waking hour has had some type of thoughts about AHWF. The last couple years have been increasingly demanding with this year being almost unbearable. After months of putting in 18 hour days, she made the decision to rest.  Did you know that university professors are given a sabbatical every seven years? The reason is to ensure that teacher stays fresh, does not burn out and recovers from their constant cycle of giving. Did you know that the founder has only stopped three times for a total of ten days in twenty years! This time of rest was necessary for emotional, mental, physical, spiritual health. Three webinars were attended September, October and November) regarding compassion fatigue, empathy exhaustion and burnout. This time of rest and minimal focus on matters related to AHWF extended through late December.      

 

December

Continuing daily care for the American Robin and American Crow.

We need board members – a few directors have stepped down this year.

No volunteers to connect with the Christmas Fairs

Submit internship position to university job boards

Missed a few grant deadlines. no volunteers .

Posted (auction) jewelry items on fb to solicit funds

Create article for Neighbors insert – ‘twas the week after Christmas poem. posted on Blog also

Complete Idaho Fish & Game rehab and US Fish Wildlife migratory bird rehab annual reports.

Submit renewal request (and fee) for educational use permits to IDFG & USFWS

Reptile and Amphibian Webinar from LaFeber

Uploaded video to AHWF youtube channel

December 5^th was international volunteer day – did you do anything exceptional, we would love to hear about it. One volunteer created three short videos for facebook – the goal to solicit help.

Supporter made and donated an owl lap quilt for AHWF to raffle or auction

Board meeting (online)

a dozen phone messages & responding to over 150 emails

 

 

To all the patrons who have been so generous in 2021, I extend my most sincere apologies for not keeping you updated on the wonderful wild animal patients you were helping, for not offering the usual 3 dozen events and public education opportunities, for not responding promptly to your letters, emails and contributions.

 

 

In order for AHWF to expand and build; provide care for more animals, to provide the amazing learning opportunity – the nature walk and reach more community members – we need more eyes and hands and boots. 

 

Do you ‘do social media’? there is a need to increase our presence on the various platforms and announce regularly our patients, our happenings and general information.

 

During the ‘baby season’ it is simply not possible for me to keep up and would gladly assemble and assist folks who have the interest and ability to take over.

 

AHWF wants to do more for this community of native neighbors and needs you to sign up for whichever task suits your schedules. be an ‘on call’ volunteer for tasks and projects or someone who will dedicate a few hours a month or someone who wants to learn about wild animal care, completes the training sessions during the winter in order to sign up for specific days and times during the spring baby season. over two dozen volunteer ‘job’ titles have been created.

 

Late Winter and Early Spring is the time traditionally used to plan future events and create a list of projects requiring attention as well as many of the other ‘behind the scenes’ requirements.

These tasks include event planning, intern application review as well as educational activities planning and article writing along with grant funding research. 

 

 

 

 

 

completed 20 January 2022 (KSM)

Ubiquitous Nature

 

Ubiquitous by some definitions means abundant or ever present. In North Idaho, we do seem to have ubiquitous nature = wild species and spaces galore, however when you look closer… 

Reflect on the reality of so many people moving ‘here’ from ‘there’.  They, just like you, appreciate the wildness of Idaho. Some Idahoans know the importance of sharing the habitats with our wild neighbors. We accept we are a part of not apart from nature. We understand that nature heals and rejuvenates – not in some energy crystals and auras kind of way (although there is some validity to that level) but in the way that spending time in nature forces you to realize you are one very small piece in a very large puzzle.   

Nature is not an entertainment destination. Nature is not a recreational venue to be abused. Nature is not an entitlement for the privileged. Nature is not a means to an end of accumulation of resources. Nature is not ubiquitous. Nature will not remain wild, unless we the people defend and protect.

“What can one person do? Stop being one person. You don’t have to do it all. Other people are working all around the world on the same causes you believe in. Find them, join up with them. You’ll find your place in the choir. Choose what you love and devote yourself to it. That is enough."  ~Joanna Macy

Bonner County has a many nonprofits with missions involving the environment and the protection of habitat components. These charities vary in size as well as the ways they accomplish their activities but one common thread connects them all – the need to have community support.

Ecologists use an airplane as a metaphor for nature. Imagine all the components necessary to create that craft – engine, wings, metal, nuts, bolts, wiring, computers, etc. in your mind substitute all the parts of a healthy functioning ecosystem in place of the parts of the airplane. The insect kingdom is the nuts and bolts, the wiring are the rodents such as squirrels, the metal panels are the small mammals, the glass and landing gear are the birds, the computer compartments are the predators, the oil and other necessary fluids – the water and lands, the engines are the trees and other flora. Do you have that image in your mind? Take a moment to and start removing all the flora and fauna which has gone extinct. Loosen or damage all the flora and fauna which are threatened and endangered. Do you still feel safe trying to fly in that plane?    

History will clarify that the native peoples of North America were connected to nature. Nothing was taken for granted; all life was respected and honored. Yet sadly, the ‘civilized peoples’ felt this connection to nature was ignorant.  The people were gathered up and forced to forget their ways. Hubert Reeves phrased it the best when he said: “Man is the most insane species. He worships an invisible God and destroys a visible nature. Unaware that this nature he’s destroying is this God he’s worshiping.” Nature is an ecosystem. The prefix ECO comes from GREEK - “OIKOS” meaning HOUSE. Ecosystem – a ‘household’ of organisms.   An ecosystem is the house we live in. Economy refers to how we manage that house.  

 

If that analogy is insufficient to stir your soul, perhaps a more human approach will be understood. Do you remember or have you read about the 1970 Kent State University shooting? This was decades before humanities ghoulish fascination with death and calling morbid images entertainment was normalized to the point of complete desensitization and yet a young girl ran to help, she ran to do something, she reacted towards the horror in front of her. The innocence of youth and being connected to her emotions and compassion were the driving force. What is the excuse for adults to not get involved in any good and kind act? Selfish narcissism or fear because of past traumas suffered at the hands of others who were not humane humans.  

Aldo Leopold said “the last word in ignorance is the man who says of an animal or plant, what good is it?” The moral may be act for what you believe in, don’t try to dominate. Simply live and let others do likewise, work together to find peace. If we don’t remember history we are destined to repeat it. Let us not walk in the path of ignorance and follow misguided attempts of dominance.

Humans have caused habitat alteration, fragmentation, acid rain, increased ultraviolet light due to ozone depletion, pollution by toxic chemicals and heavy metals, predation from free roaming dogs & cats and introduced species competition, poaching, killing, trapping, drought, climate change, illegal transfer through pet trade or commercial collection, urbanization, improper harvesting techniques, burning fossil fuels, improper waste management, exhaust from motor vehicles, release of noxious gases like SO2, CO etc. from sources such as metal smelters, coal dust and particulates in our waterways,  air pollution leading to water & soil deforestation, leaking underground storage tanks, incorrect use of agricultural chemicals (fertilizers & pesticides), livestock grazing near waterways, solid waste disposal sites, treatment plant ‘sludge, Consider treatment plants cannot filter the toxins & the same water body where emptied is the tap water source as well, urban runoff (including salt from winter de-icing), improper logging techniques, lead poisoning from sinkers & bird shot (alternatives are available and exist). – biomagnification is the problem, feral pet populations, Release of industrial chemicals: crude oil, heavy metals, radioactive waste, including thermal pollution. Compounding issues of strip mining practices  which have currently exacerbated desert community groundwater supplies, septic systems (leaking or nonfunctional), household chemicals/ homeowner actions, street lights & outdoor advertising, etc. Each night billions of bulbs send their light pollution skyward. These bits of matter reflect the wasted light back to earth, causing wildlife damage.

The land mass of Idaho is 83,557 square miles, the 12th largest state in the lower 48.  The human population in Idaho has risen from 88,548 in 1890 to 431,866 on 1920. There were 721,519 residents in 1975. The 2011 census reported 1,584,985 humans living in 53.5 million acres. The 2020 census reported 1.8 million people sharing the same land space with the native wild animals. These wild ones are our native neighbors! Let us all learn to cohabitate, they are trying to exist with ever shrinking resources.  

The human race seems to be divided … those with empathy and those with apathy. Let nature guide your acts. Rivers do not drink their own water; trees do not eat their own fruit; the sun does not shine on itself and flowers do not spread their fragrance for themselves. Living for others is a rule of nature. We are all born to help each other. No matter how difficult is…life is good when you are happy; but much better when others are happy because of you.   

Make a stand for wild spaces and species. Donate time, talent and treasure. For wildlife we are both their greatest enemy and their only hope. These wonderful creatures will not argue their case. They will not put up a fight. They will not beg for reprieve. They will not say goodbye. They will not cry out. They will just vanish.       And after they are gone, there will be silence. And there will be stillness. And there will be empty places. And there will be nothing you can say to change this. Nothing you do will bring them back. Their future is ENTIRELY in your hands.   

Being a Good Neighbor

 We have all heard the saying it takes a village to raise a child into a responsible adult. A parent can read all the articles they want but there is so much more support when they talk with friends who have children who share experiences. That expression is based on good neighbors helping their neighbors.

 

Idaho is full of big hearted citizens and nonprofit charities. Idaho is also a community filled with many wonders of nature – wild spaces and species. How do we become good neighbors and keep Idaho WILD? We make time to learn about our native neighbors. Winter is a wonderful time to begin your studies. The wild animal residents will leave foot prints in the snow. There are only a few bird species who remain through winter’ you will be able to commit to memory the handful by vision and hearing. Did you know the shape of a birds beak gives clues to what it eats? Did you know there are four types of tree squirrels or that striped skunks will dig up underground wasp nest?

 

Time in nature is a reciprocal relationship. When you spend time learning the names of all the feathered, furry, scaled, and even wild animals with skin you will be healing yourself. By observing what they eat and where they find shelter, you can come a good neighbor.  Your time in nature, even the briefest exposure, will relax you and help you cope with the daily annoyances.

 

The estimated human population growth into Idaho over the next five years is staggering. The best way to maintain the beauty of our glorious neighborhood is to take the pledge to present the present as a present for future generations. We do this by connecting with local charities working to help wild animals. We do this by learning about our native wild animal neighbors and then sharing what we have learned with our fellow human neighbors.   

 

One easy way to observe wild birds is to maintain a yard with native plants. It is the best way to offer a diversity of natural foods. If you decide to put up bird seed or suet feeders in the spring or summer, please continue in winter. Remember if you do use feeders, please keep them clean. Dirty feeders will spread diseases such as salmonella and conjunctivitis. When songbirds flock together and one gets sick, inevitably the others will become ill. Sadly, the diseased birds who perish can still spread the disease. If you make the decision to offer supplemental foods, rejoice in the assortment of animals who visit. Your invitation for one, rapidly turns into many.  

 

Always be a good neighbor and respect the safe distance. Do not approach, nor try to take selfies. Do not offer unnatural food items – this is for their health and yours. A wild animal who does not fear humans is in danger. Be a good neighbor and help your wild native neighbors. We love where we live, so let’s work together to keep Idaho WILD.          

(thank you Bonnie for this great Pine Siskin photo) 

Baby its COLD outside!

 

Baby its COLD outside

How do the native neighbors, the wild animals we humans cohabitate with, stay warm? Heat is one of the seven components any habitat must provide to ensure survival. For endotherms (mammals and birds) heat is created internally and preserved by the integument (aka fur and feathers). Because humans do not enter states of brumation, aestivation, torpor or hibernation nor do we possess a naturally grown fur coat; we must use the finite supply of fossil fuels available such as natural gas, wood, coal, and/or oil. We utilize houses made of wood, nails, concrete, etcetera to make sure the elements do not affect our well-being. The wild animals call their shelters different names such as dens, burrows, and hibernaculums.

The wild animals cohabitating with us - the native neighbors, use shelter both natural and artificial. Trees offer internal cavities when both upright and fallen. Bird and Bat houses provide escape from sun and wind. Some animals use caves, or ground burrows and for some the only thing stopping them from certain death during long cold winter is a pile of fallen leaves. G. Pinchot states an obvious fact that has become overlooked. The forest is not merely a collection of trees.

To be scientific in the most simplistic way for just a brief moment, heat is in essence a byproduct of energy which has been acquired by consumption of food. All living beings need a food source. There must be producers and consumers. The food chain is the relationship of which organism eats what organism and who eats them. The reality of nature is there is no such thing as a bad animal. To survive one must eat or be eaten.  

If food provides the means to stay warm internally, how does the animal maintain that heat? Mammals have fur coats. Hair and fur is the same thing in the name but microscopically there are differences between species. A hair strand has layers; one factor contributed is the determination of coloration. Habitat conditions determine the special adaptions each animal will have. A few examples would be long guard hairs, thick deep undercoat, and special vibrissae.    The purpose of any pelt is to disallow dirt and water to settle onto the skin. When this happens the principle of the perfect seal of air is broken and conditions such as hypothermia (the extreme reduction of core body temperature) will arise. Some animals have hair which is hollow. These animals are the coat of the deer and the quill of the porcupine. The hollow hair traps air which forms an air pocket of body heat. The exception is bats who during hibernation allow their body temperature to drop to that of their environment!  

Just like mammals, birds must have some means to protect their skin. They do not have fur they have feathers. The structure of a feather under the microscope shows the barbules interlocking together and the hollow shaft. There are many ‘categories’ of feathers, plume, semiplume, down, and so forth but basically there are three types of feathers: down, contour and flight. Down feathers are the fluffy feathers located close to the body which help insulate the bird and keep it warm. They are located beneath the contour feathers. These are the external feathers which provide that sleek streamline shape. They shed the rain water and provide an extra layer of protection from the elements – the exception is owls. They sacrifice the ‘waterproofing’ of feathers in order to fly silently. The contour feathers are stiff, but flexible, strong but lightweight. The specialized feathers with the purpose of getting off the ground, staying in the air as well as landing safely are called flight feathers. Feathers are fascinating. Flight is an amazing. Want to know more? Raptor Freedom Project created a little article about feathers and flight which we have shared onto the American Heritage Wildlife Foundation facebook page.

What about the ectotherms? How do the reptiles such as snakes and turtles and the amphibians such as frogs stay warm? The animals with scales and skin must draw heat from external sources and be able to adapt their body temperature. They conserve their energy by slowing down the metabolisms and limiting movement. Snakes do not hibernate. They simply find a place of shelter and wait for frigid temperatures to pass. Shelter can be a hollow log, a rodent tunnel, or a pile of leaves. Often these burrows will be used year after year. Without shelter survival over winter is not likely. Lizards store much of the energy they need for survival in their tails. Some species who are able to ‘release’ their tail as a defense when predators attack will starve if they cannot regenerate the tail with sufficient stored energy. Turtles will find shelter at the bottom of the pond and settle in. They draw oxygen, as a fish does with gills, through a highly vascularized appendage - their tail! This special adaption is invaluable for survival. Problems may arise if the water freezes solid as this limits the oxygen. Frogs are amazing creations. The native wood frog for example will just stop moving, they appear to be frozen solid. This is because of the high glucose in the internal organs. This glucose provides two life sustaining properties, nourishment and antifreeze.

Can you name all seven components required for survival? Humans and the wild native neighbors alike need heat, shelter, light, water, soil, air and food. Please be kind and respectful of all living beings – the life you save may be your own. Humans are after all just one piece of this intricate puzzle called an ecosystem.

Find out more about your community supported Bonner County located professional wildlife rehabilitation nonprofits American Heritage Wildlife Foundation and Raptor Freedom Project on the web and social media. Call AHWF at 208.266.1488 to find out how you can become part of the team working to keep North Idaho WILD! 

twenty years

 

Thanks to your help, American Heritage Wildlife Foundation has been able to help the local injured and orphaned wild animals for 20 years! Pat yourself on the back for your dedication. A fellow rehabilitator of only songbirds had to close her doors in the middle of Spokane Valley after only 7 years due to lack of funds and volunteers helping. We are located in a rural location and care for all but the largest of species and we are still forging ahead with the mission to help the wild native neighbors and educate our human community. 

   

I wanted to share an excerpt from a recent email from a very large nonprofit group executive director:

 

every leader has an expiration date. There comes a time for all of us when – in taking a deep breath and a long look at where we are and most importantly where we’ve been – we realize that a new leader with fresh ideas and a different skill set is needed to take our organization to the next level.

 

I receive a lot of credit for being a great leader, but in all honesty, it is the team here at the Center and our incredible board of directors who share in the credit. We succeed as a team, always.

 

Those statements really sum it up as your founder and lead volunteer of every aspect of operations. I am emotionally, mentally, and physically tired.

I need to have others step up and exude their vibrant energy and revive my fatigued soul. While it does not seem like it, twenty years’ time has passed since the vision and the formal process began to create your local wildlife rehabilitation and community education nature center.

In all honesty, I have been working in wildlife rehabilitation longer than that. I was reflecting, not only wild animal work at three different zoos but also the fact that during the late 1990’s prior to moving out of state for a zookeeper position, I had been assisting the local Sandpoint conservation officer and accepted wild animals as patients. He even provided me with the vari-kennel crates! Wild animals have been needing my help for almost 30 years. I have been required to provide their every need – it is my divine calling.

 

Blessedly I have been supported these past several years by AMAZING friends.  I could not have gotten through without your financial support both for this mission of AHWF but also personally without your notes of encouragement and hugs.

 

In order to continue another 20 years:

We must have an active board of directors. This includes the presidency (if the members wish I will remain as the vice-president), a treasurer, and several other vacant seats.

We must have active committees – many people giving a little and working together to accomplish a lot!

 

Share with your friends (& followers) how important your support is. Your soul has been stirred by mission and vision of keeping Idaho wild – get them involved so they can experience this joy as well. Not only treasure is necessary to succeed; contributions of time and talent are also required. Consider getting involved with the American Heritage Wildlife Foundation board or volunteering or perhaps submit application for either the on-site or off-site internship positions. Details are on our secure webpage www.ahwf.org Consider getting involved with the Association of Idaho Rehabbers for wildlife support group (AIR for wildlife). This newly formed group www.airforwildlife.org which will be working with all the licensed Idaho wildlife rehabilitation facilities.

 

Duties of the aforementioned committees are:

a)      Wildlife Rescue (& transport) Team - These committee members should function in cooperation with any and all wildlife rehabilitation organizations within the state of Idaho which are in good standing and members if the Association. They arrange for transporting animals to and from facilities or veterinary hospitals as well as locating release sites. Additionally materials and supplies will be transported as needed from facility to facility. These may include surplus expired hospital items or frozen meat or . They keep records of the locations of cages and animal taxis drivers. Additionally these members shall abide by traffic laws as set forth by law enforcement when transporting wild animals from one facility to another. These members shall not attempt rescue of any wild animal without proper training and a notarized release waiver being on record. Accurate records of mileage will be maintained and provided upon delivery. Transportation costs for fuel may be reimbursed however shall not be required nor demanded.

b)      Welcome wagon Committee – This committee will welcome incoming new members by introducing them and getting them involved in the Association as well as the various licensed wildlife rehabilitation facilities who hold active membership status.

c)      Supplies and Inventory committee – these members’ research best prices for supplies, food, etc. and share their findings with the nonprofit wildlife rehabilitation facility managers. These members ensure an ample supply of such items is on hand based on the expected seasonal needs of the organization, coordinates the collection of natural foods and maintains records of the locations of freezers and other designated supplies. Records shall be maintained of surplus and shortages.  They directly assist the wildlife rehabilitation organization managers.

d)      Public Relations committee - members prepares news releases regarding AIR activities; prepares and mails newsletter and all general interest information to members; prepares posters, fliers, etc., for activities such as fund-raising activities, they assist with maintaining social media presence, including creation of a youtube channel designated for wildlife rehabilitation awareness.  They are tasked with encouragement to join the association; this includes identifying wildlife rehabilitators who are not currently members of the association. 

e)      Fundraising committee  - members shall proposes and coordinates fund-raising programs such as garage sales, etc., and pursues whatever grant and gift opportunities may be available. Also, develops promotional materials for sales of hats, T-shirts, and sweatshirts, and coordinates sales which will create funds to support the wildlife rehabilitation organizations which hold Association membership status. Additional ideas for fundraising shall be specially created artwork and books or online campaigns. 

f)       Animal Records committee members shall maintain lists of species and quantities processed at the recognized licensed permitted wildlife rehabilitation facilities which are Association of Idaho Rehabbers for wildlife active members. These committee members shall report to the members or the board of directors as needed or requested on issues relating to percentages released, causes for admission, genus and species etcetera. 

g)      Outreach and correspondence committee - members shall be involved with assisting the AIR active members with any type of correspondence as deemed necessary. Makes calls necessary to coordinate or assist various programs as proposed by other committees.

h)      Projects planning committee - members maintain close contact with the Association active members and identify the necessary projects. These committee members organize and coordinate the solicitation of supplies necessary for construction and maintenance of cages and other major projects when the needs arise at the licensed wildlife rehabilitation facilities which are active members of the association.

i)        Education committee - members get directly involved with providing presentations regarding AIR and wildlife rehabilitation activities and goals to schools, civic and private groups, etc. to assist community in better understanding role of AIR and the importance of wildlife rehabilitation. Prepares training materials and conducts training sessions at the direction of wildlife rehabilitation facility managers. Additionally a template for online wildlife trivia is in place (through mentimeter established by AHWF ) and can be utilized to educate and entertain.

j)        Wildlife Health – committee members shall research infectious and/or non-infectious diseases, human related causes for wildlife admissions to rehab centers, or advancements in wildlife rehabilitation techniques.

k)      Licenses and regulations committee – members shall remain aware of and report as needed the assorted dates for hunting and fishing. These members will also strive to keep aware of any poaching activities and encourage members to take action to apprehend the perpetrator of the crime(s).  Future laws effecting wildlife and alterations to existing sporting activities shall also be identified including regional restrictions of certain species.

l)        Standards of operation committee – these members are tasked with keeping current on latest means of intake, handling, feeding, and treating animals as well as euthanasia practices. Creating documentation reflecting this data relating to wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife health, and captive wildlife topics along with announcing continuing education opportunities shall be shared with those active wildlife rehabilitator members. The committee shall also assist with drafting training materials and creating training sessions including developing an Idaho Wildlife Rehabilitation Study Guide with exams in order to prepare the next generation of Idaho wildlife rehabilitators.  This shall be done under the close working agreement with staff from any one or more of the licensed wildlife rehabilitation facilities who are Association of Idaho Rehabbers active members.  

m)    Other committees will be created on an as needed basis (ad hoc).

 

Sincerely and with much gratitude,

 

Kathleen

Kathleen St.Clair - McGee

American Heritage Wildlife Foundation founder & board of directors president

https://www.ahwf.org

208.266.1488

Find us on the facebook, instagram, twitter, linked in, youtube, vimeo, and the web.

Association of Idaho Rehabbers for wildlife founding member.

https://www.airforwildlife.org

 

“In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand. We will understand only what we are taught.” – B. Dioum

 

Don't be scared - it's just me your neighbor!

 

Don’t be scared – it’s just your native wild animal neighbor!

Many native neighbors, their nocturnal sounds cause irrational fear in many humans. By reading this article I will attempt to accomplish what Marie Curie said was true. Nothing in life is to be feared; it is only to be understood. Unfortunately, as Oliver Wendell Holmes said we are all tattooed in our cradles with the beliefs of our tribes. And superstition is the religion incongruous with intelligence as John Tyndall said.

So, let us start a journey of intelligence and understanding. Every animal in the web of life is vital. Without every species the habitat is not a fully function ecosystem.  What are your views about skunks, bats, coyotes, and great horned owls? These species for some reason seem to be vilified the most. One fiction author even had her heroine make the statement “man gave the wolf all the dark bits of himself and then vilified the wolf”. Perhaps that statement will explain the polarization and why there is such resistance of many humans to accept all species, particularly predatory species as valuable.

Skunks are nomadic. I will say that once more – they are nomadic. They stay on the move. They do not see well, nor hear well. They have no powerful defenses like big claws or teeth. They do not have aggressive attitudes. In reality, they are quite docile. Their small size makes them perfect to be considered food by several predators. The only means to defend is a grape sized scent gland which, once depleted (roughly three sprays) they are helpless. Did you know they consume many harmful insects including underground wasp nests as well as rodents? They are not digging up your over watered lawn, they are consuming the plethora of insects residing in your lawn who are there to consume your lawn.    

Bats are not blind nor are they a mouse with wings. Their wing actually more resembles the hand. These animals do not fly into your hair. It is more likely they were trying to consume the small flying insects hovering just above your head. They can navigate around a single strand of thread in total darkness using their echolocation abilities. They cannot take flight from the ground. They do not carry rabies. Once contracted from the stray cat who had it, they too will perish from it. Roughly 0.5% or 1 in 1,000 bats have the virus.  More people are killed from dog attacks, bee stings, power mowers or lightning than from rabid bats. Did you know a colony of 1,000 bats will consume 22 pounds of insects each night? There are 12 species of bats most are threatened or endangered. Some migrate, some remain hibernate the winter. One winter disturbance can cause up to two weeks early awakening.   

The first Americans respected the hardiness, adaptability and intelligence of the Coyote. Without their tenacity and opportunistic feeding tendencies the habitat would be overpopulated by assorted prey species consuming far too much vegetation which would lead to starvation and habitat depletion and erosion.

Did you know there are nine species of owl who reside in our region? They are not harbingers of death. Chosen prey depends upon the bird – from moths to rabbits. Not all fly silently but there is a cost for the silence. In order to hear the prey instead of themselves the feathers sacrifice their weather resistance. Contrary to popular belief the head cannot rotate all the way around, only 270 degrees. The low frequency vocalizations travel long distances.   

When a person makes a connection with nature, a bond is formed. Being immersed in nature makes a person realize how interconnected we all are. Being just one of many in the hectic buzz of urban settings it is easy to be self-absorbed and ignorant of the how dependent each species is upon another. Out of sight and mind are the endless threats to this planet which effect the survival of us all.

In the name of LOVE.....

STOP – in the name of love and engage your brain!

We are aware you (the private citizens) care. We, being the professional licensed and trained wildlife rehabilitators. We are aware you enjoy the wild animals around you as much as we do. We love it when you show your support through donating time, talent or treasure. The truth is we could not do what we voluntarily do unless you supported our efforts. We also are moved deeply when you acknowledge the hard work we accomplish. For those who want to get involved with hands on animal care, please do contact today and begin the training process. For us to keep Idaho WILD, we need your help.

In the last few weeks, your three North Idaho licensed wildlife rehabilitators (American Heritage Wildlife Foundation, Mystic Farm, and Palouse Wildlife Rescue & Rehab) have admitted cases which we have worked tirelessly to save and lost. We have given pain medications, proper nutritional support, performed medical procedures, shouted to the great creator to give us the wisdom to know how to help, sought additional professional counsel, lost sleep and grieved terribly over each precious soul of our wild native neighbors.

The common thread between each of these cases: the rescuer thought they knew best. They thought they could trust the information they read on the internet. They thought it was credible information. They thought the same foods they ate were acceptable for this different species. They thought they were helping. The end result was the rescuers admitted defeat and the animal suffered needlessly and suffered a painful death. 

Imagine, you are walking along and then a person stops, picks you up, takes you to their house, forces food down your throat which makes you feel sick and never lets you leave. Each day this person repeats this cycle of holding you down, forcing you to consume foods which make you feel worse and worse and seems oblivious to your suffering. This is exactly what happens when a good intentioned private citizen does when they keep a wild animal and try to raise it.

There is no maliciousness intended, it is not a brutal or merciless act being performed. It is simply ignorance because the captor does not know what the signs of pain and suffering are, there is no realization they are killing you.

The founder of Mystic Farm Wildlife Rescue who cares for the White Tailed Deer fawns had a patient recently accepted by well intended private citizens who kept the orphaned fawn and provided the wrong nutritional requirements. They contacted this professional organization after problems started to present. This animal was not able to have the trauma reversed. It suffered and died needlessly.

The founder of American Heritage Wildlife Foundation who has the permits and training and capacity to provide care for nearly 270 of Idaho’s 280^+/_  species has had five cases in less than two weeks of private citizens finding wild animals and then attempting to rehabilitate them on their own.

One pair of American Robins had been in care with their captor for almost two weeks. Both were malnourished. The feathers were weak and breaking off. The skin was pale and bones were very weak. They could not fly despite being of an appropriate age. They were caked with feces. Sores were present on their legs because they were too weak to stand. One was suffering from pneumonia. Both had external parasites because of the filthy conditions they were kept in. Both were suspected to have internal parasites.

A call was received about one young Raccoon after the person saw the adult hit on the highway and stopped to discover a youngster curled up beside its dead mother. This person decided it would make a wonderful pet and kept the animal.  After more than one week of ‘care’ this good Samaritan consulted AHWF for advice. Our volunteers advised this person the proper thing to do is bring in for rehabilitation and did not pass along information on what to feed, how much to feed, what type of setting the animal should be in, what medications are necessary, what nutritional supplements are needed etc. This wild animal has not been admitted for rehabilitative care and we have not heard from the caller again.

One Robin hatchling was admitted after being ‘cared for by a neighbor’ for three days. The bird was given to this person because they told the neighborhood they ‘just raised a batch of Robins’ who fell from the nest. What was not told to the neighborhood was these birds suffered from metabolic bone disease and upon flying away were unable to recognize natural foods and starved to death. The little patient upon admission was only days old and weight was 9.6 grams in weight (less than a quarter). It was suffering from double pneumonia.

One Female Striped Skunk was found dead on the highway. One driver stopped and discovered one youngster at her side. They immediately called and made arrangements to get the animal admitted for care. Sadly too many days had passed between the time the mother was killed and being found, she died despite providing supportive care. Another sibling however was picked up by a would be rescuer, but instead of contacting the professionals these folks decided they would feed this wild animal the food choices they felt were best. When they realized the error of their ways, they contacted our volunteers and this patient was admitted. He died in agonizing pain because of the incorrect foods he was forced to eat. Our newest volunteer’s very first wild animal experience was this little male. This new volunteer had to daily try and provide comfort and ease the suffering. They interacted with this animal in order to render attempts at life saving measures. In the end not only did the wild animal die but this experience will forever be etched on that volunteer’s heart.  

One young American Crow was admitted. We estimated this bird to about 6 weeks of age. Upon examination we could surmise this short life was filled with nothing but discomfort and pain. Because the lead wild animal care specialist has more than 30 years of professional experience with wild animals the story line unfolds like this: Hatch from egg. Remain in nest with siblings. Start exploring using wings and legs but loose balance. Fall to ground. Picked up by human #1. Taken home and forced to eat the wrong foods. These items do not offer enough nutritional support for healthy bones, skin, feathers, or muscles. The human realizes that they messed up because the bird cannot stand and the legs are permanently fused at the joint due to perpetual laying down. The feet are twisted to the side because of old trauma or incorrect bone development. Callouses form on the anatomical areas where there should never contact with the ground due to the deformities of the body. The anatomical body part which should never be in contact with the ground was bruised and sore because of this as well. Feathers are in poor condition because of the nutritional deficiencies and no social interaction to learn the behaviors necessary to ensure feather health.  There were external parasites crawling on this bird. A weakened body is prone to have external parasites which leach out the life slowly one bite at a time. So the human, instead of admitting their error and contacting an animal hospital to end the suffering simply takes the bird into the woods and puts it on the ground to fend for itself and be free.  

Another human finds this bird days later and realizes it is in need of care or it will starve to death painfully. They take it home and try to render aid by again giving foods which are also not nutritionally sound or appropriate. After a few days, human #2 realizes the bird needs more than a few so called free meals and takes it to a veterinary clinic who has doctors who do not know about birds so they contact AHWF. Our trained volunteers coordinate a transfer and then examine the bird only to realize this bird will never have a chance at being wild and it has only ever known suffering.  Human #1 created a huge emotional wake because of their ego and ignorance. Human #1 is responsible for causing suffering to that young bird who most likely could have simply been renested and the parents would have continued care. Human #1 is responsible for causing human #2 loss of time and expense trying to fix the problem. Human #1 is responsible for the loss of revenue the veterinary hospital could have earned by treating a dog or cat instead of spending time with an animal they were not able to treat. Human #1 is responsible for a community supported nonprofit expend financial resources to retrieve the bird. Human #1 is responsible for having several trained volunteers become emotionally attached to this wild native animal in distress. Human #1 is responsible for the sorrow caused to the lead wildlife care specialist when the only humane decision was euthanasia.    

The founder of Palouse Wildlife Rescue and Rehab receives countless calls daily about assorted wild animals. One such call is detailed below.

A caller asked if the founder would be willing to accept a tree squirrel with a broken spine. The caller had the animal for two days. Because the emergency veterinary clinic would not release the animal back into her custody after the examination, she did not bring it in for any type of care. This citizen wanted the animal to live despite being paralyzed. After being told to please bring the animal in so the suffering would end, the caller hung up.  

Do not misunderstand this proclamation. We are grateful for the kind humans who want to help. We are cut from the same cloth. Please do understand that it is IMPOSSIBLE to raise a wild animal fully, this means physically, mentally, emotionally, and behaviorally simply by reading one perhaps less than credible article on the internet or believing old wives tales. Just because you tossed the bird in the air or took the mammal out into the woods and let loose your grip does not constitute a ‘successful release’.

We love you for your kindness and wanting to help. We want you to help but please do not stop caring once you put your hands on the animal. There is no shame in admitting you don’t know what to do. There is no shame admitting you need help. There is great reward when you become part of the team who saved a wild animal who was able to be released into the wild territory of North Idaho. 

Wildlife Rehabbers are committed to this calling. It is not a career. It is not a hobby. They are deeply empathetic to the wild animals and when those animals suffer the toll is immense. Wildlife rehabilitators accept the financial strain and the physical demands. They willingly agree to the mental challenges. They put on a brave face for the general public. They smile as complete strangers tell of stories of family members who improperly raised wild animals and then let them be free, all the while knowing that animal suffered needlessly. They patiently listen to the stories from complete strangers of assorted horrific animal encounters such as my cat once got a bird and it …. or my dog attacked a fawn and it …. because they know that this complete stranger is not wanting to offend. This complete stranger is simply trying to find that common ground and demonstrate their compassion for wild animals by telling perhaps their only experience with our wild native neighbors. There is a very very very heavy emotional price to pay for those who accept the responsibility of properly raising a wild animal so it may return to its wild habitat. This price is paid willingly, but when the patients are admitted because of mistakes and errors made from ego and ignorance, their sorrow is tempered with rage.

The roughly 5,000 professional wildlife rehabilitators across the nation all have two things in common. We all love the wild animals more than ourselves and we are unfathomably shaken to our cores when we see the contradiction of humane human who cared enough to stop their hectic lives for one second and rescue a wild animal but then not care enough to spend a few minutes researching the correct next step.  If you truly love where you live and care about the wild animals who are our native neighbors, get involved with these licensed facilities. We need your support.

Please stop in the name of love, before you break all of our hearts.