CROW Calendar
The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife’s AWC Visitor Education Center, at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, will present the following:
– WEDNESDAY, FEB. 9
Wildlife Rescue 101 at 11 a.m.
Have you ever come across wildlife in “distress” but did not know the appropriate steps to help? Florida is home to over 700 terrestrial animals and other invertebrates, and they all depend on our sustainable recreational practices to survive. From posturing to vocalizations, animals communicate in a variety of ways and, at times, indicate their need for human assistance. Whether it is deterring visitors from feeding birds on the beach or detaching a pelican from fishing line in the mangroves, the program will cover wildlife rescue assessment, as well as handling techniques.
Patient Profiles: Virginia Opossums at 2 p.m.
Virginia opossums are the only marsupial, or pouched mammal, native to the United States. They are highly adaptable animals and can live in a variety of habitats, both natural and human made. Although it may not be obvious to some people, opossums are a unique member of Florida’s wildlife, playing an important role in the function of a healthy ecosystem. One of CROW’s Animal Ambassadors will be present.
– THURSDAY, FEB. 10
Patient Profiles: Owls of Southwest Florida at 11 a.m.
Raptors are birds that prey on other animals in the wild to survive. Their specialized beaks and talons make them some of the most effective hunters. The presentation discusses the unique adaptations of the native and migratory raptors of Florida, specifically the five species of nocturnal hunters known as owls. One of CROW’s Animal Ambassadors will be present.
Aquatic Environments at 2 p.m.
Sanibel is a barrier island famous for its wildlife. Ever wonder why Sanibel provides such a great home for so many species of animals? The presentation discusses the aquatic environments around Sanibel and what makes them a vital part of the ecosystem. One of CROW’s Animal Ambassadors will be present.
– FRIDAY, FEB. 11
Baby Care at CROW at 11 a.m.
Wildlife parents are very devoted to the care of their young and rarely abandon them, and juveniles found “abandoned” might actually be in a natural stage of development. Those needing assistance are placed in a specialized wing of the wildlife hospital and are provided supportive care around the clock until they are old enough to care for themselves.
Why Sanibel? at 2 p.m.
Have you ever thought about what makes Sanibel a popular destination? Not only is Sanibel home to good food, award-winning beaches and snowbirds, but it is also home to some of the most diverse wildlife in Southwest Florida. The presentation will talk about what makes Sanibel stand out and what policies are in place to keep Sanibel a sanctuary island.
– SATURDAY, FEB. 12
A Day in the Life at 11 a.m.
CROW’s teaching hospital offers externship, fellowship and internship opportunities for natural science and veterinary medicine students. CROW also benefits from the help of over 200 volunteers. While on site, students and volunteers learn the ins and outs of conservation medicine and wildlife rehabilitation. Volunteers, staff members, and students will share their favorite patient stories and give attendees an inside look at what happens behind the scenes at CROW. One of CROW’s Animal Ambassadors will be present.
– MONDAY, FEB. 14
Patient Profiles: Virginia Opossums at 11 a.m.
Virginia opossums are the only marsupial, or pouched mammal, native to the United States. They are highly adaptable animals and can live in a variety of habitats, both natural and human made. Although it may not be obvious to some people, opossums are a unique member of Florida’s wildlife, playing an important role in the function of a healthy ecosystem. One of CROW’s Animal Ambassadors will be present.
The Misunderstood Animals at 2 p.m.
There are some animals that humans are not as fond of. Most of these animals are not cuddly and fluffy, but they do have environmental importance. The presentation discusses some of these misunderstood animals and why they aren’t so bad after all. One of CROW’s Animal Ambassadors will be present.
– TUESDAY, FEB. 15
Patient Profiles: Owls of Southwest Florida at 11 a.m.
Raptors are birds that prey on other animals in the wild to survive. Their specialized beaks and talons make them some of the most effective hunters. The presentation discusses the unique adaptations of the native and migratory raptors of Florida, specifically the five species of nocturnal hunters known as owls. One of CROW’s Animal Ambassadors will be present.
Patient Profiles: Shorebirds at 2 p.m.
When walking the beach, have you ever noticed the diversity of birds on the shore and in the water? The presentation will discuss the different birds from the tiny snowy plovers to the big white pelicans. Look at how they play a role in the environment and learn why they are more important than ever.
Speaker Series at 4 p.m.
Jason Robertshaw, program manager for virtual learning at the Mote Marine Laboratory, will present “Shark Zone” via Zoom. The program is focused on shark research at the lab. Using a combination of recorded and live shark cam video, attendees will go on a virtual tour of the 135,000-shark habitat. After an overview of shark husbandry and training, Robertshaw will discuss the research technology used to study sharks. Cost per device is $10, plus applicable taxes and fees. Advanced registration is required; to register, visit http://www.crowclinic.org/articles/2022-speaker-series or https://bit.ly/SharkZoneMote.
General admission to the center is $12 for adults, $7 for ages 4-12 and free for ages 3 and under. Admission includes the above daily presentations, and no reservations are required to attend. For the safety of CROW’s animals and other visitors, masks are required at all times in the center.
In addition, CROW offers Wildlife Walk Guided Hospital Tours on Monday through Friday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and on Saturday at 11 a.m. The 1.5-hour program features a daily presentation in the center and then a guided tour through the treatment areas of the hospital, concluding on the rehabilitation grounds. It is open to all, but it is not recommended for ages under 13. Cost is $25 and it includes admission to the center. Capacity is limited to eight participants; advanced registration is required. Masks are required at all times during the tour. Tours are subject to modification and cancellation. Payment is required to complete the reservation. To register, contact 239-472-3644 ext. 229 or reservations@crowclinic.org.
For more information, visit http://www.crowclinic.org/ or call 239-472-3644.