This year we have received generous support from the Orpha C. Correll Fund and the Helmut & Candis Stern Animal & Bird Welfare Fund at the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation which will allow us to further expand our staff so that we can deliver even better care to the injured birds of Washtenaw County.
It is a great help to have all our birds and resources together at one location. Last year we took in 775 birds of many different species and handled 2095 phone calls throughout the year. This year we anticipate being even busier. Baby birds have to be fed every 30 minutes from dawn until dusk. And they, as well as their surroundings must be kept clean and dry at all times. Last year the birds were distibuted among volunteers homes, a much less efficient use of precious volunteer effort. This summer, one volunteer will be able to take care of many birds at one location.
We work closely with the DNR, and with groups such as the Michigan, National, and International Wildlife Rehabiitators Associations which are groups dedicated to continuing education in the care and rehabilitation of wildlife. Our volunteers regularly receive training hosted by these organizations.
The Bird Center of Washtenaw County plans one or more training sessions throughout the year to train our volunteers.
We are also pleased this year to be able to release some of our rehabilitated birds on properties in the Washtenaw County Natural Areas Preservation program. These natural areas will be the perfect release sites for some of our native birds. The Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy has also been a great supporter of our mission, helping us publicize our volunteer opportunities and helping to guide our young organization.
Our vision for the future
We have great plans for the future and hope to not just lease space but one day establish a permanant home for the Bird Center of Washtenaw County.
With a permanant home we hope to be able to attract more volunteers and grow and serve as a community organization that is committed to aiding birds, wildlife and the environment through public education and rehabilitation.
The Bird Center will be alive with birds inside and out. Outside the windows will be bird feeders and around the building will be natural plantings to attract birds. Inside will be birds that cannot return to the wild, but can serve as foster parents or models to provide the proper imprinting for nestlings and juveniles. In the education rooms there will be children and adults of all ages. Brownies and Cub Scouts will visit the Center and work on their patches and badges. Senior citizens will find a welcoming and enriching environment in which to volunteer.
