- To rescue, rehabilitate and release wild birds
- To educate the public on wild birds and wild bird issues
This has been a very busy year for the organization. So far this year, the organization has cared for nearly 1200 birds. In addition, 2012 saw the completion of a raptor aviary and a shorebird aviary, allowing Wild Bird Rescue to keep more types of birds. The organization also ramped up its education programs by keeping more raptors for programs.
Between more birds overall, more costly birds to keep and the number of education birds, the costs have also increased. Wild Bird Rescue still operates with just one paid staff member. Regardless, the coffers are empty. The organization has had a few fundraisers lately and three more are planned. If you can help by supporting one of these fundraisers, please do.
- Saturday, October 13: PAWS It Forward to benefit Wild Bird Rescue. Wild Birds Unlimited is hosting a fundraiser at Smith's Gardentown on Saturday, October 13, 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM. Donate $25 to Wild Bird Rescue and receive a $20 coupon for Wild Birds Unlimited products. Rusty, one of Wild Bird Rescue's avian ambassadors will be on hand periodically during the day.
- Sunday, October 14: Big Sit, 7:30 AM - 10:00 AM. The Big Sit is a national event--rather like a birders' tailgate party. Birder's sit inside a 17-foot circle and count all of the birds they can identify. This year, to assist Wild Bird Rescue the North Texas Bird and Wildlife Club has pledged $1/species. Anyone is welcome to participate in the Big Sit, whether for a few minutes or for the entire scheduled time. This is a great way for new birders to learn about birds or those with mobility issues to participate. So bring a lawn chair, binoculars and dress in layers.
- Sunday, November 25: Big Day for WBR. This is a marathon birding event with a team (or possibly multiple teams) birding from 7 AM - 7 PM, attempting to find as many species of birds possible. Wild Bird Rescue is looking for sponsors (individuals, groups, or businesses) to pledge on a per species basis or a flat amount. Last year the team found 98 species. This year the goal is 100 species. If you would like to sponsor, contact Wild Bird Rescue at 940-691-0828 or email me at txbirds@gmail.com. You can also make a donation through PayPal on Wild Bird Rescue's website. If you would like to participate on a team, contact me. Just remember, this is a marathon event, with non-stop birding. We'll be driving a couple of hundred miles and likely walking quite a bit. The team will be posting their progress on Facebook and on Twitter throughout the day. You can follow the team by following me at @birdwithpenny or by watching the Twitter feed on this blog.
Of course, personal donations to the organization in any amount would be appreciated, whether or not they are connected with any of these events.
Good birding!
