Wildlife centre needs help ahead of baby season

CROW, the Centre for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, has released their wish list ahead of baby season, with hopes of residents jumping on board to help.
According to Crow’s operations director and herpetologist, Clint Halkett-Siddall, baby season starts in September and ends in April at the latest and sees thousands of baby admissions.

“Baby season is by far the most busiest and expensive time for Crow. During the 2021 baby season, we had 2 534 bird admissions. This is not taking into account any mammals, primates or reptiles. Our average food bill during this period is between R35 000 and R45 000 monthly for all animals on the property. At average, we have 600 or more animals during baby season,” Clint said.

With animal lovers sometimes finding either baby mongoose, genets, monkeys, birds, scrub hares or reptiles, in their community during baby season, Crow urges residents not to try to hand raise them as these babies require specialised care and diets.
“Residents, rather contact us at Crow and we will fetch the animal. If possible, we appeal to the public to bring the babies to us. If you try and hand raise the baby, they will imprint on you and stop being wild. Crow does not remove healthy animals from their environment, but we rescue, rehabilitate and release wildlife,” said Clint.

ALSO READ: We need more volunteers, says wildlife rehabilitation organisation 

The items on Crow’s baby season wish list will be in high demand in the coming months. If you would like to donate any of the items, they can be dropped off at Crow’s offices, situated at 15A Coedmore Avenue, Yellowwood Park, or Crow will can arrange for collection.
For more information, call 031 462 1127 or email info@crowkzn.co.za