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, MARCH 23
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, MARCH 24
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.
Species Profile: Snakes of Southwest Florida at 2 p.m.
Florida is home to 46 species of native snakes, only six of which are venomous. Although there is a widespread fear and misunderstanding of the animal, most species are harmless to humans and form vital links in the ecosystem. Snakes are extremely valuable because they are efficient at monitoring pest populations without relying on chemical pesticides, which can degrade the environment and harm other animal species. One of CROW’s Animal Ambassadors will be present.
– FRIDAY, MARCH 25
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.
Species Profile: Sea Turtles at 2 p.m.
There are seven different species of sea (or marine) turtles, and human activities have tipped the scales against the survival of the reptiles. Most species of sea turtle are classified as endangered, and CROW is the only licensed sea turtle facility between Sarasota and Marathon. From boat strikes to washback hatchlings, come listen as one of CROW’s team members describes why they are admitted and how the medical staff treats the species. One of CROW’s Animal Ambassadors will be present.
– SATURDAY, MARCH 26
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, MARCH 28
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.
Pollination at 2 p.m.
Did you know that only 10 percent of flowering plants are pollinated without animal assistance? Animals play an important role as pollinators and are responsible for the production of most fruits and vegetables. The presentation will cover the partnership between plant and pollinator, as well as the most important animal pollinators and the flowers they visit. One of CROW’s Animal Ambassadors will be present.
– TUESDAY, MARCH 29
Vultures at 11 a.m.
Vultures are unique and play a beneficial part in the ecosystem. In the talk, take an overall look at vultures and their contributions to the environment. Explore vultures from different countries worldwide, learn about their positive role in human and wildlife health, and what you can do to help their conservation efforts.
Species Profile: Snakes of Southwest Florida at 2 p.m.
Florida is home to 46 species of native snakes, only six of which are venomous. Although there is a widespread fear and misunderstanding of the animal, most species are harmless to humans and form vital links in the ecosystem. Snakes are extremely valuable because they are efficient at monitoring pest populations without relying on chemical pesticides, which can degrade the environment and harm other animal species. One of CROW’s Animal Ambassadors will be present.
Speaker Series at 4:15 p.m.
Capt. Brian Holaway will present “Unique Sanibel Island & the Surrounding Area” in-person and via Zoom. The talk will illuminate the importance of island ecosystems, why their protection is crucial, and why the area’s waters, islands, shells, plants, marine life, wildlife, history and people are unique to Southwest Florida. Holaway will also touch specifically on Sanibel, Captiva and Cayo Costa and how they help sustain healthy ecotourism, wildlife populations and healthy environment. Cost is $10, plus taxes and fees. To register, visit http://www.crowclinic.org/articles/2022-speaker-series or by calling 239-472-3644, ext. 222.
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.