The Cheyenne Center for Wildlife Rehabilitation

The Cheyenne Center for Wildlife Rehabilitation started as an outgrowth of the wildlife work done by Cheyenne Pet Clinic. The organization is funded by the Cheyenne Pet Clinic and by the generous donations from the public. Wildlife patients are treated at no charge to the person presenting the animal to the clinic. Over the years, most every species of Wyoming's native wildlife, especially birds, have been presented for treatment. Everything from sparrows to armadillos to mule deer to golden eagles has been treated. Many of these animals are injured due to human/animal interactions. Some are hit by cars, some have flown into windows or have been shot, while others may have been attacked by dogs or cats. With so many varied animals and injuries, not all patients can be released back to the wild and have to be euthanized. Even with all the problems, the release rate at the Cheyenne Center for Wildlife Rehabilitation is 35-40% - an excellent statistic. Over two hundred wildlife cases are seen yearly at our clinic.

In the spring, many young animals and birds are presented as orphans. Most of the time these animals are not orphans and should be left for their parents to return to. Nests of baby birds can be placed back in trees and their parents will continue to feed and care for them. Baby mammals should be checked at dawn and dusk and only "rescued" if no parents are found.

Many raptors or birds of prey are also injured yearly. These birds are all protected by the federal government and can only be cared by facilities with a special rehabilitation permit. These birds include owls, falcons, hawks, and eagles. Most of the raptors presented to the clinic are brought in by the general public. Since birds can be dangerous if handled improperly, we want to include these tips should you find one injured:

1. Note the geographic location where the bird was found. This information will be necessary when the bird is ready for release.
2. Approach the bird from the rear if possible. If the bird is alert and can follow your movements, anticipate that it will struggle when first handled.
3. When close enough, carefully place a jacket, blanket or any other handy lightweight item over the bird. Make sure to cover the bird completely.
4. Quickly restrain the bird under the covering. Usually you end up with a covering full of talons, but at least you know where they are.
5. As the bird calms down, gather the covering together, being careful to get the bird's wings folded against it's body.
6. If required, the covering can be made into a sack using a string.
7. The bird can then be placed in your car and brought to the Cheyenne Pet Clinic for treatment.

Remember that calling the Game and Fish Department is also a good idea if the animal presents a danger to you.

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