Not Many People Know About This Wildlife Sanctuary Right Here In Missouri
By Liz Oliver|Published June 21, 2018
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Liz Oliver
Author
Liz is a Missouri native with a B.A. in English from Mizzou and a M.A. in Non-Profit Administration from Lindenwood University. She works for a STL metro-area community college and enjoys writing, traveling, and indoor cycling. Her true passion is forcing her encyclopedic knowledge of Missouri facts on uninterested strangers from across the globe!
Missouri is home to a diverse population of wildlife. All native species of animals are essential to a healthy ecosystem, but as the human population continues to grow there seems to be less room for our furry friends to roam. Most of us know to take out sick pets to the vet when they need medical attention but have you ever wondered who cares for an injured squirrel or abandoned coyote pup? Just outside of St. Louis is an amazing wildlife sanctuary that works to rehabilitate injured animals and release them back into the wild. Want to know more about this amazing facility, keep reading to find out how you can visit or volunteer.
The Wildlife Rescue Center is located in Ballwin, just minutes from Castlewood State Park. More than 2,000 wildlife patients are treated each year in their 9,000 square-foot facility and expansive outdoor enclosures.
Most of the animals that are brought to the sanctuary due to human-related injuries. However, after the necessary medical care animals with the necessary skills and abilities to survive are returned to the wild.
Animals that have recovered but are still not ready for release can recuperate in special outdoor enclosures. These outdoor areas help the animals readjust to natural elements but enable caretakers to keep a close eye on them.
The center also offers educational programming to the public. Throughout the year, they have special events that allow guests to interact with their ambassador animals. Additionally, kids can attend one of their awesome animal camps that are held over winter and summer breaks.
Mammals are the most common type of animal treated at the sanctuary. This handsome coyote was captured by St. Charles Animal Control after being hit by a car. After recovering at the center, he was released back into the wild. Although they look intimidating, coyotes are essential in controlling the rodent population in Missouri.
The Wildlife Rescue Center also comes to the aid of reptiles, amphibians, and birds. Snakes caught in nets and turtles with damaged shells are some of their most common cold-blooded patients.
Baby animals often find their way to the center. However, they always caution — just because you don't see the mother doesn't mean the animal is abandoned. Never give an abandoned or injured wild animal food or water. Instead, call the center at (636) 394-1880 or visit their website for specific information.
Want the center to host your group? They offer awesome programs for field trips and scouts. They can even host birthday parties for nature-loving kids.
Interested in visiting the Wildlife Rescue Center? Make plans to stop by their open house on July 8th from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. You'll get a behind-the-scenes tour of our wild animal hospital and see some of the animals they help each year.
Find the Wildlife Rescue Center at 1128 New Ballwin Rd., Ballwin, MO 63021. For more information about upcoming events or what to do if you find an injured wild animal, visit their website here.
Did you know about the Wildlife Rescue Center? Would you be interested in visiting or volunteering? Tell us what you think in the comments below.
Did you know Missouri is also home to a tiger sanctuary? Check it out here.
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