Urgent need at Alabama Wildlife Center: 4 ways you can help

Alabama’s oldest and largest wildlife rescue center needs your help.

According to a recent post on social media, the Alabama Wildlife Center (AWC) is on track to treat a record-breaking number of Alabama’s native wild birds this year, with more than 1,000 birds already admitted. Due to the increased need, the AWC is seeking dedicated staff, volunteers, medical supplies and community support.

Alabama’s oldest and largest wildlife rehabilitation facility needs your help

Founded in 1977, the AWC is a wildlife rehabilitation and education center located inside Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham. One of only four facilities in the state permitted for wildlife rehabilitation, the AWC cares for nearly 2,000 wild bird patients from over 100 species every year, including songbirds, raptors and waterfowl.

This year, the AWC has already treated more than 1,000 wild bird patients—and baby bird season isn’t slowing down until October.

4 ways you can help the Alabama Wildlife Center

According to Director of Development Jordan Giddens, the AWC treats injuries ranging from glass window strikes and cat attacks to fishhook punctures and gunshot wounds. Since each bird patient requires expert medical treatment, specialized diets, medications, housing and countless hours of hands-on care, the AWC is seeking community support to continue its lifesaving caregiving services.

1. Monetary Donations

One of the most effective ways to support the AWC’s mission of preserving and protecting Alabama’s diverse wildlife is by making a monetary donation. Every donation makes an immediate impact on AWC’s ability to provide care to injured birds, whether its a one-time gift of $25 to feed a nest of hungry baby birds for a week or a recurring donation to support AWC’s mission.

In addition to direct donations on its website, the AWC accepts gift cards to the following businesses:

• Rodent Pro
• Chewy
• Home Depot
• Lowe’s
• Walmart
• Amazon

2. Supplies

Beyond monetary donations, the AWC has a “wish list” of resources and supplies needed to care for numerous injured and orphaned birds. According to Jordan Giddens, the most important items are:

• Toilet paper
• Paper towels
• Lysol
• Disinfecting bleach (NO low splash)
• Non-scented sensitive skin laundry detergent

In addition, the AWC is currently looking for a used washer and dryer—ideally a combo unit—for its laundry. Because the AWC uses sheets and linens while caring for injured birds in the nursery and clinic, its washers and dryers are running 24/7.

3. Volunteers

Due to the overwhelming amount of wild bird patients, the AWC has temporarily suspended new volunteer orientations. However, the organization is always in need of “days of service” from businesses, civic groups and other volunteer organizations. The AWC’s campus currently has several woodworking projects in the queue—perfect for an Eagle Scout Service Project!

4. Membership

Another way to support the AWC’s mission is by becoming a member. With three different Membership Levels ranging from $30 a year to $150 a year, becoming a member is a convenient way to help the AWC while enjoying perks like discounts and free access to on-site programs. Learn more about AWC’s Membership Levels.

How are you supporting the AWC? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know!