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Calls of the Wild Affected by Wildfires |
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FUND FOR ANIMALS WILDLIFE CENTER ©2007
This gray fox survived burns to his paws and, once completely healed, was released back to the area he was found. |
As the wildfires ranged through Southern California in late October 2007, most wildlife sensed the danger and made life-saving decisions to leave the scene.
Some wild animals who make their homes in the arid habitat were not as lucky. Here are some stories of a few burn victims who made it to our Fund for Animals Wildlife Center in Southern California:
- Just six days after the fires began, we admitted a young male gray fox with singed fur, burned feet, dehydration, and malnutrition. Staff cleaned, medicated, and bandaged his injured feet; we also gave him antibiotics and intravenous fluids. As the days progressed, the little fox got stronger, and his feet appeared to heal. We were able to successfully release him into the wild—completely healed and without any lasting burn injuries.
- On Nov. 2, we rescued two bobcats, one marked with burns on his face. Their feet and ears were severely burned, and they were malnourished and dehydrated. Although their prognosis is tenuous, they are both eating and responding well. Someday soon we hope to release these bobcats as healthy animals back into their native habitats.
Animals, like people, are in danger when disasters strike. But our work at the center aims to increases the chances of survival for wildlife who come through our doors.
After the fires had abated, we saw many healthy animals resting comfortably in the California hills and heard them howling them in the night. These sights and sounds of active wildlife are what we work for in our rehabilitation work each and every day.
Update: Sadly, neither bobcat survived their injuries.
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FUND FOR ANIMALS WILDLIFE CENTER ©2007
The gray fox fully recovered and taking off upon his release! A joyful day for all involved. |
Related Links
Posted February 20, 2008 |
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