Wildlife rescuers kept busy in 2011
Burnaby-based organization rehabilitated 3,275 hurt animals
Staff and volunteers at the Wildlife Rescue Association of B.C. (WRA) based at Burnaby Lake were busy as beavers in 2011 taking care of beavers and much more.
During the past 12 months, the WRA dealt with 3,275 rescued animals. That was 174 more than 2010, and the most since 2004.
The WRA reports that not only did the rehabilitation facility take care of wildlife rescued in Burnaby and Metro Vancouver, but also others from as far away as Calgary, Whistler, Courtenay and Grand Forks.
The array of animals admitted included ravens, owls, hawks, herons, skunks, marmots, moles and, of course, beavers, one of which is currently in WRA care.
In one recent celebrated case, a skunk called Bubbles by its rescuers in Vancouver’s West End was brought to the Burnaby Lake facility about six weeks ago. Bubbles suffered a large infected cut after it had a dome-shaped clear plastic cup stuck around its neck.
Bubbles underwent surgery in November and was released to a small wooded area in the West End on Dec. 28.
“2011 was an extremely busy year, but with the help of volunteers who gave their time, and the support of local individuals, families and companies who donated cash, food and equipment, we were able to save the lives of hundreds of animals,” said WRA spokeswoman Yolanda Brooks.
During the holiday period, the facility was caring for more than 20 animals.
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