WILDSIDE SOUTH FLORIDA’S
Holiday 2023
South Florida Wildlife Center’s Quarterly Newsletter | Education | Patient Updates | Events
OUR MISSION: PROTECTING WILDLIFE THROUGH RESCUE, REHABILITATION, AND EDUCATION. www. SouthFloridaWildlifeCenter.org • (954) 524 - 4302 • Hours: 9:00AM - 4:30PM
STAFF Medical Director Charlotte Cournoyer, DVM
WILDSIDE
Associate Veterinarian Erica Sheppard, DVM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Executive Director Alessandra Medri
Office Manager JoAnne Mayz Director of Outreach Carolina Montano Business Development Manager Noreen Abrams Development Specialist Steven Faviano Clinic Supervisor Shelby Slevin Rehabilitation Supervisor Maria Vanegas Release Supervisor Mariangelique Diaz Fallick Volunteer Coordinator Camila Pulido Outreach Coordinator Khrystyne Jamerson Outreach Specialists: Kasandra Camejo Megan Rowan Lead Wildlife Rehabilitators: Nick Sonzogni Joe Hausfeld Wildlife Rehabilitators: Jessica Ferrigno Lisa Bergwin Erika Piechowski Eloisa Valencia Mercy Torres Shannon Doherty Sharmicha Moore Fayth Tapia-Wade Riley Munsen Milagros Otero Lead Veterinary Assistant: Joscelyn Bentz Veterinary Assistants: Sandy Pagel Natalie Hess Facilities Manager Glenn Georgis Facility Technicians: Anthony Weare David Grant
000000 0000000000000000000000000
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jeffrey J. Arciniaco
President, Board Chairman
Thomas J. Sabatino Jr. Vice Chairman, Secretary
Thomas A. Bartelmo Treasurer
Ardath Rosengarden Director
Doug Koger Director
Eric L. Bernthal Director
SOUTH FLORIDA’S
04 Upcoming Workshops 07
Stay Wild! Adoption Program
08 Corporate Sponsor Highlight 10 | Outreach Opportunities 12 | Winter Beach Clean-up 14 | Local Conservation Efforts 17 | Species Spotlight 18 | Staff Feature 21 | Winter Migration 22 | Ways you can help
Cover photo is 2023 Wildlife Photography Contest entry of a Ruby-throated Hummingbird by Faith Hubsch. Missed previous editions of South Florida’s Wild Side? Check them out at https://issuu.com/sfwc
MESSAGE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Dear Supporters and Friends of the South Florida Wildlife Center, As we approach the end of 2023 and our 54th year of serving the community, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support. Your generosity has been the cornerstone of our mission, allowing us to provide critical rescue, rehabilitation, and veterinary care to over 6,000 animals from 252 different species this year. As the largest volume wildlife hospital in Florida, we’ve worked tirelessly to offer specialized care to both native and migratory species visiting our state. Your support has been pivotal in nurturing and rehabilitating hundreds of baby squirrels, opossums, raccoons, and birds that filled our Nursery during the Spring and Summer. In the Fall and Winter, you were instrumental in assisting numerous injured and exhausted birds, including pelicans, bald eagles, ospreys, songbirds, and many more, as they traveled on their migratory path to Florida. Looking ahead to our 55th year in 2024, we are more determined than ever to continue our mission of wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and release. With state-of-the-art technology for acute wildlife trauma and an expanded community education program, we’ve reached over 89,000 local residents, answered more than 100,000 calls for help, and engaged with over 10,000 community members at our monthly Wild Talks. We’ve also conducted several hundred educational programs in elementary and middle schools, inspiring over 6,500 future wildlife enthusiasts to take action and protect our environment, and reached over 9.7 million via social media. We are thrilled to share that our efforts have received recognition this year. The South Florida Wildlife Center was honored as the “Memorial Healthcare System Outstanding Non-Profit Organization of the Year” at the 12th Annual 211-Community Care Plan Non-Profit Awards. Additionally, we achieved a four-star rating on Charity Navigator, reflecting our commitment to transparency and integrity in serving our mission and the animals we care for. Your compassion and kindness have made a profound difference in the lives of countless vulnerable creatures. We are deeply grateful for your support and encourage you to continue being an integral part of our mission. Thank you for being our partners in wildlife conservation. Please enjoy this holiday edition of the South Florida Wildlife Center.
southfloridawildlifecenter.org | 3
2024 MONTHLY EVENTS A key aspect of our mission is to educate the community about peaceful coexistence with wildlife. Our goal is to inspire the next generation of wildlife conservationists through incredible educational opportunities. Explore our upcoming wildlife conservation workshops, events, and programs, and don’t miss your chance to be a catalyst for change. Join us in making a positive impact on our planet and the amazing creatures that call it home. Wild Talk at Snyder Park Are you ready to embark on an adventure that will leave you feeling WILDly inspired? Our program offers a unique opportunity to connect with the incredible creatures that inhabit our planet. Join us as we explore the challenges they face and discover the steps we take to rehabilitate them in our hospital. Our captivating Ambassador Animals are ready to charm and enlighten you on how to become a champion for wildlife and their natural habitats. Don’t miss out on this WILD opportunity! Junior Wildlife Vet Workshop Ready to become a junior wildlife vet? Our program is tailored for kids ages 6-11 who are eager to dive into the exciting world of wildlife medicine! Through our hands-on activities, our Junior Vets explore the steps we take to rehabilitate patients in our hospital from intake to release and learn the challenges that wildlife face in their natural habitats. Join us in our mission to protect wildlife through rescue, rehabilitation, and education! Who Gives a Hoot Workshop Get ready to spread your wings and take flight into the wonderful world of owls! Our thrilling program will have you soaring through the skies as you discover the fascinating secrets of these magnificent birds. Engage in hands-on activities from investigating owl artifacts to dissecting owl pellets, immersing yourself fully in the fascinating world of owls. And that’s not all - our Owl Animal Ambassadors will be joining us, ready for you to share your knowledge and passion for these feathered creatures. Don’t miss out on the chance to be a part of this hoot-tastic adventure! Shellebrating Tortoises, Turtles, and other Upland Species Workshop Are you passionate about wildlife conservation and preserving our local species? Look no further than our new Gopher Tortoise Conservation Program! Our program aims to educate and engage the community in learning about the threats that Gopher Tortoises face in their natural environment. By participating in our program, you’ll have the opportunity to interact closely with our Ambassador Animals, and participate in a variety of interactive activities. Together, we can help preserve these amazing creatures and foster a deeper appreciation for the environment and its inhabitants. Join us today and make a difference in your community! 4 | South Florida’s WildSide | Holiday 2023
MARSH RABBITS (only 23-6246 pictured here) Davie residents were astonished to discover a nest of three Marsh rabbits in their outdoor fire pit. Despite unsuccessful attempts to reunite the rabbits with their mother, the compassionate residents transported them for rehabilitation at our hospital. A thorough intake exam revealed the rabbits were healthy with no injuries. At this stage in their life cycle, they are independent from their mother, so they were quickly returned to the wild.
6 | South Florida’s WildSide | Holiday 2023
STAY WILD! ADOPTION PROGRAM The holiday season is here, and we understand how challenging it can be to find the perfect gift for that special animal lover in your life. But worry not! Our Wildlife Education Ambassador Program is the perfect solution. Our Stay Wild! Adoption Program allows you to symbolically adopt one of our resident animals, giving your loved one the joy of supporting wildlife this holiday season. By adopting one of our animals, you are helping to support the Wildlife Education Ambassador Program and provide the best veterinary care, husbandry, and habitat maintenance for our education ambassador animals. Give the gift that matters this holiday season and support our mission to educate and inspire the next generation of wildlife conservationists. Adopt an animal through our Stay Wild! Program today! Check out www.southfloridawildlifecenter.org/adopt for more details!
southfloridawildlifecenter.org | 7
SPONSOR HIGHLIGHT Thank you to our Corporate Sponsor! We could not express enough gratitude for your generosity! Your corporate sponsorship and partnership with SFWC are an incredible benefit to our organization. We are so grateful for your kindness. Our appreciation is immeasurable for your trust in us and contribution to our mission! $1,000 Virginia Opossum Sponsor
Riverland Apartments
Join our corporate sponsorship program! As a wildlife enthusiast and supporter of the South Florida Wildlife Center, you have the power to make a real difference in the lives of the native animals of South Florida. By sponsoring our center, you will provide crucial, lifesaving support to injured, orphaned, and sick wildlife. Our mission is to rescue and rehabilitate wildlife, and educate the community about our wild neighbors. For over 54 years, we have been a critical community resource for wildlife and the residents of South Florida. Your corporate partnership will directly support SFWC’s operations to admit and treat over 6,000 animals annually. SFWC’s state-ofthe-art hospital, complete with a surgical suite, Intensive Care Unit, diagnostic equipment, medications, and medical supplies, ensures that every animal receives the best possible care. Our rehabilitation habitats mimic natural settings for each species and prepare them for release into the wild. The Outreach and Educational programs are designed to captivate the community and school aged children through engaging in-person and online presentations. These initiatives are a source of inspiration and education, shedding light on the critical importance of preserving our wildlife and their habitat. We do not receive financial support from state or local government agencies and rely solely on the generosity of individuals and corporations like you to sustain our important work. Join us today and make a difference in the lives of South Florida’s wild animals Visit our website to learn more at www.southfloridawildlifecenter.org/sponsorships. We are grateful for your compassion for wildlife and your partnership.
8 | South Florida’s WildSide | Holiday 2023
WOOD STORK (23-5808) This Wood Stork was found in Coral Springs with an injured wing. An intake exam determined the bird was thin and radiographs confirmed fractures in the radius and ulna of the right wing. Under anesthesia, an external fixater was put in place to hold the area in proper alignment while healing. After two weeks of supportive care and rehabilitation, radiographs confirmed the fracture was properly aligned and is healing well. The Wood Stork is a vital indicator species for the restoration of the Everglades ecosystem. By closely monitoring and recording the biology of the Wood Stork, we can gain important information about the health of the entire ecosystem. It is important to note that the Wood Stork is protected by the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the Federal Endangered Species Act, and Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species Rule as a federally designated threatened species.
southfloridawildlifecenter.org | 9
NOCTURNAL WONDERS NIGHT HIKE Get ready for a wild night out! Join us at Snyder Park to discover how our scaly, furry and feathered friends adapt to the darkness! Our Ambassador Animals will be showing their adaptations and special features that allow them to thrive at night. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to expand your knowledge and have a hoot with us! See you there!
Saturday, 2/24/24 Friday, 6/21/24 Sunday, 7/21/24 Friday, 11/15/24 Sunday, 12/15/24
WILD TALK & TOUR We have an exciting opportunity for you to get up close and personal with the local wildlife! Join our Wildlife Educators at SFWC for a private Wild Talk & Tour and learn about the incredible adaptations that help these creatures survive in the urban jungle. Meet some Animal Ambassadors and hear their incredible personal stories. Plus, discover how you can help their species. Our one-hour-long program will cover general information about SFWC and our work as an active wildlife hospital, but that’s not all! Participants will also take a brief tour of our outdoor rehabilitation areas. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity! Book your spot now for just $15 per person. Let’s get wild! Please email kjamerson@southfloridawildlifecenter.org to book today! 10 | South Florida’s WildSide | Holiday 2023
FLORIDA COOTER (23-6119) This Florida Cooter was transported to our center after concerned citizens saw the turtle get hit by a car. An intake exam confirmed a complete fracture of the carapace (top of the shell) and swelling around the right cheek. Fortunately, the fracture did not extend across the spine, but radiographs confirmed the swelling was caused by a hook in the mouth. Once stable, this turtle underwent surgery to wire the fractures together and ensure proper alignment while healing. Treatment plans include regular doctor checks, monitoring of the fracture site and swimming time. This patient is currently being treated in our Wildlife Ward.
southfloridawildlifecenter.org | 11
WINTER BEACH CLEAN UP If you head to the beach almost anywhere in the world, you’ll likely see evidence of human impact: balloons, cigarette butts, and plastic. Keeping our local beaches clean helps protect marine habitats and wildlife while fostering a deeper appreciation for our shared beautiful natural spaces. Are you ready to make a splash and help protect our wildlife? Join us this January for a beach cleanup to save our coastal critters! We need your help to keep our beaches clean and safe for all the furry, feathered, and finned creatures that call it home. Don’t wait! Grab your sunscreen and join us for a day of fun in the sun while we protect our precious wildlife. Here are some benefits of cleaning up your local beach! Protects marine animals Over the past few years, we’ve been shocked by the number of patients admitted to our hospital due to consuming or getting trapped by the waste and marine refuse thrown in the oceans. By removing the trash we find on the beach, we’re doing our part to ensure that animals in those areas don’t get hurt or entangled.
Creates a safer environment Trash isn’t just an eyesore – it can be dangerous, too. Sharp pieces of metal and glass, which can easily be hidden in the sand, can cause serious injuries to beachgoers and wildlife. If you see any hazardous items like those, be sure to take extra caution when picking them up.
Makes seafood safer It’s true – what goes in the ocean can end up inside us! A former Wild Lecture Series speaker from Nova Southeastern University presented a study that found that people who eat seafood consume several thousand tiny plastic particles each year. Over time, these chemicals can build up in our bodies and cause health issues. That’s why cleaning up your local beach is so important – it’s one way to create a healthier world! To watch our Wild Lecture Series, check out our YouTube Channel.
Gets you outside Nothing beats the feeling of sand between your toes, the warmth of the sun on your skin, and the fresh sea breeze. Beach cleanups are a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the ocean and nearby beaches while doing something good for the environment.
Provides important data Beach cleanups are an important way to collect data and better understand beach pollution. Volunteers can document what they find and how much of it there is. This information can help us understand what’s causing the pollution and develop ways to reduce it! The data can also be used to measure how successful beach cleanups are and identify areas needing the most attention.
Connects you with new people Beach cleanups are a great way to make new friends and build relationships with people share your passion about the environment. They’re also a great opportunity to learn about resources and how organizations like ours are working to protect the environment. 12 | South Florida’s WildSide | Holiday 2023
southfloridawildlifecenter.org | 13
LOCAL CONSERVATION HELPING THE GOPHER TORTOISE The South Florida Wildlife Center (SFWC), established in 1969, is Florida’s highest-volume wildlife hospital and rehabilitation facility. Every year, we treat between 6,000 and 9,000 animals from nearly 300 different species, including several that are considered threatened on a state and federal level. One of these species is the Gopher Tortoise, which we have admitted 17 of so far in 2023, bringing our total to over 300 in the last decade. In order to educate future wildlife enthusiasts about the significance of the Gopher Tortoise and the several hundred species it shares its home with, the center has developed an interactive workshop for ages six and over that will be launched in January 2024 called Shellebrating Tortoises, Turtles, and other Upland Species. This workshop will provide a comprehensive understanding of the Gopher Tortoise’s crucial role in our environment and the ways in which we can protect and preserve this species. SFWC is committed to promoting awareness about wildlife conservation. Join us in learning more about this incredible species and its importance in our ecosystem at this workshop! SFWC is proud to have joined fellow centers and state partners to help conserve the Gopher Tortoise species. This October, our dedicated staff worked tirelessly to transport Gopher Tortoises from our center, Pelican Harbor Seabird Station (located in Miami), and Busch Wildlife Sanctuary (located in Jupiter) for a coordinated release in northern Florida through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Gopher Tortoise Program. All rehabilitated patients were released where they will continue positively impacting the ecosystem. The release of these tortoises into the wild marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to protect this endangered species. At SFWC, we remain committed to working with our partners to ensure a bright future for the Gopher Tortoise population and to foster a peaceful co-existence with our wild neighbors.
14 | South Florida’s WildSide | Holiday 2023
southfloridawildlifecenter.org | 15
PATIENT 23-6270 A concerned citizen discovered this Common Snipe injured in Hallandale Beach. An intake exam confirmed an injury to the mouth and beak that caused the tongue to stay exposed from the mouth, along with an injury to the eye. Fluids, pain medications, medicated eye drops, and antibiotics were administered to start the healing process. Because they are a high stress species, this patient is currently under observation in our ICU. 16 | South Florida’s WildSide | Holiday 2023
SPECIES SPOTLIGHT
COMMON SNIPE Gallinago gallinago
These small, well-camouflaged waders are native to the Eastern Hemisphere and can only be found in Florida during the winter season. They are social birds usually foraging in small groups and may gather in flocks of up to 500 individuals at rich feeding grounds. Their feeding habits are truly unique as they feed at dawn and dusk, wading in soft mud, probing or picking up food by sight. These shy birds conceal themselves close to ground vegetation and fly only when approached closely. Although Common snipes are not currently threatened, populations on the southern fringes of the breeding range in Europe are declining, with local extinction in some areas due to field drainage and agricultural intensification. Despite being hunted as gamebirds in much of their range, these fascinating birds continue to flourish. If you’re a nature enthusiast, don’t miss the opportunity to spot Common Snipes during their winter visit to Florida. Head to shallow wetlands, low pastures, open lakes, ponds, and stream shorelines to catch a glimpse of these elusive birds. Join us in celebrating the beauty of the natural world and the amazing creatures that call it home.
southfloridawildlifecenter.org | 17
STAFF FEATURE
Charlotte Cournoyer, DVM Medical Director
What led you to where you are today and when did you start working for SFWC? My first experience working with wildlife was in high school. I was an educator at an aquarium and would teach people about ocean conservation and pollution and share stories of how human impacts threatened wildlife. I became very passionate about that. At this point, I had worked as a technician at a dog and cat vet clinic for a few years. During my undergrad program, I returned to the same aquarium and worked in their seal rehab clinic, where I helped raise sick and orphaned baby harbor seals. This opportunity was my first introduction to wildlife medicine. The rest is history! I chose to attend the University of Florida because of the amazing biodiversity of Florida’s wildlife and the opportunities to advance my wildlife medicine training. After graduating from veterinary school, I completed a rotating internship with a focus of emergency medicine in Boston with dogs, cats, and exotic pets. I also assisted in stabilizing wildlife brought to the hospital prior to their transfer to a rehabilitator. That led me to a year-long specialty internship in Sanibel, Florida, where I dove deeper into wildlife medicine, surgery, conservation, and research. There, I enhanced my skills and knowledge about Florida’s wildlife that I use here daily. Following that position, I began working at the center at the end of June 2022. What is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is using my medical knowledge to help these animals recover. To have them come in, complete an assessment, and figure out the mystery of what is going on with them to then seeing them make improvements from being very debilitated, sick, sad, injured, and in pain to watching them getting strong and do what they are supposed to do again. Do you feel like your role plays a part in SFWC’s mission? Yes, I do. I feel that I contribute to our mission by actively participating in the rehabilitation of the animals every day, and by increasing our knowledge of how to better treat them while they are receiving care through research. Fun Fact about you. I really enjoy sports and have been skiing since I was two years old. I am also an avid horseback rider and have been riding since I was five. I’ve competed nationally in horseback riding and placed in Nationals in college. My lifelong dream has been to have a horse of my own. I’m excited to say I’ve had my horse for a few months now. 18 | South Florida’s WildSide | Holiday 2023
What do you look forward to in your future career? I hope to expand SFWC’s research program by making it more robust and include expanded opportunities for students to be involved in research projects. I also hope to further the knowledge we have about the diseases that affect wildlife, especially in certain species where we see a lot of common symptoms but have no known diagnoses. I’d like to do more towards contributing to our knowledge in that way and help solve some current wildlife mysteries. What is your favorite patient story? There are so many good patient stories, but the first that comes to mind is a Bald Eagle admitted last September. He arrived with a fracture that was already old and infected. It took multiple surgeries, different techniques, and getting innovative and creative. This fracture seemed like it might not heal and looked like he might never fly again. We had to use all the tricks in our book. It was really special to see such an iconic species recover and get released after multiple surgeries and being in care for an extended time.
PIED-BILLED GREBE (23-6128) This Pied-billed Grebe was found in Dania Beach sitting in the middle of the road. When the rescuer noticed the bird was not flying, he transported the Grebe for rehabilitation at our hospital. An intake exam confirmed there were no injuries, and nothing was out of the ordinary. With small wings and legs situated at the back of their body, grebes must take flight from a body of water and have no way of getting lift once on land. It is probable this bird mistook the asphalt for a body of water when the rescuer noticed him in the road. 20 | South Florida’s WildSide | Holiday 2023
WINTER MIGRATION
SPECIAL VISITORS THIS TIME OF YEAR As temperatures drop and winter sets in, many animals migrate to the warmth of Florida. This makes it the perfect time to explore the magnificent wildlife that Florida has to offer. From majestic birds like cranes and hawks, to playful manatees and whales, Florida is home to a diverse range of wildlife that can be seen during this season. January is a particularly great time to spot wildlife, as many species are seeking refuge from the harsh winter weather. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply enjoy observing nature, Florida offers an incredible opportunity to witness these animals in their natural habitat. At our Center, we are passionate about bringing people closer to nature and inspiring everyone to love and protect wildlife. We are excited to announce that our website is now live and filled with unique events that will take place throughout the new year. Our events are designed to bring people of all ages together to experience the beauty of wildlife in a fun and educational way. Whether you’re an animal lover, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for something new to do, our events are guaranteed to leave you with unforgettable memories. From guided night hikes to interactive animal encounters, we have something for everyone. And the best part? All of our events support our mission to protect wildlife and their habitats. By participating in our events, you are not only having fun, but you are also helping to save animals and their homes. So, what are you waiting for? Head over to our website now and join our wildlife community. We can’t wait to share our passion with you and create unforgettable experiences together!
southfloridawildlifecenter.org | 21
WAYS YOU CAN HELP DONATE SFWC receives no state or municipal funding. Make a one-time financial contribution online, by mail, or in person. www.southfloridawildlifecenter.org VOLUNTEER We have a variety of ways you can get involved at SFWC! www.southfloridawildlifecenter.org/volunteer-program MONTHLY GIFT Join the flock! Giving monthly is the most powerful way to create a lasting impact and make a difference in saving the wildlife of our urban jungle. www.southfloridawildlifecenter.org/make-a-gift FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Learn about local wildlife, stay updated on our patients, upcoming events, and features of the amazing work our staff and volunteers do each day. @SouthFloridaWildlifeCenter on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube SHOP OUR ONLINE STORE Funds from our merchandise support our initiatives, and the proceeds from these sales go towards continuing our work in wildlife conservation. www.bonfire.com/store/south-florida-wildlife-center SUBSCRIBE Sign up to receive our emails and get monthly updates on what SFWC is doing and ways you can get involved! www.southfloridawildlifecenter.org/contact WISHLISTS Caring for our patients requires a lot of time, love, money, and supplies. Donating wish list items helps us with the day-to-day care of these animals and supports our operational needs. www.southfloridawildlifecenter.org/wish-lists ATTEND OUR EVENTS Whether it’s our Wildlife Photography Contest, fundraising events, or other fun activity, stop by and see what we are up to. www.southfloridawildlifecenter.org/events LEGACY GIFTS Leave a Legacy! Make a lasting impact on our environment and for wildlife with a planned gift. Your generous gift will help preserve Florida wildlife and conserve the environment for future generations by remembering SFWC in your estate plan. www.southfloridawildlifecenter.org/legacy-gifts
22 | South Florida’s WildSide | Holiday 2023
VIRGINIA OPOSSUM (23-5953) Concerned citizens transported this Virginia Opossum to our hospital when they noticed she was injured. An intake exam confirmed trauma and an open wound in the left leg. Clinic staff thoroughly flushed and cleaned the area and administered antibiotics to prevent infection. After one week of treatment, this patient was stable to undergo anesthesia and have the wound sutured. After 20 days of rehabilitation, the wound is healing well.
Learn more
southfloridawildlifecenter.org 954 524 4302 info@southfloridawildlifecenter.org 3200 SW 4th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315 Hours: 9:00AM - 4:30PM @SouthFloridaWildlifeCenter