THE Centre for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (Crow) is making an appeal for support to assist in the establishment of a much-needed wildlife stabilisation centre in Ballito. The Crow-initiated project, in partnership with Wildlife Rescue South Africa, will provide immediate care to injured and orphaned wildlife that have been rescued in the northern regions of KZN and Zululand.

 

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Clint Halkett-Siddall, director at Crow, explained how vital a stabilisation centre is in the rehabilitation process.

“A stabilisation centre is a facility that is able to offer initial treatment and stabilise the wildlife patient before being transported to Crow. It is also able to hold orphaned wildlife temporarily in order that Crow can collect when we’re in the area, rather than needing to make a special trip to the Ballito area,” he said.

He added that the centre will drastically reduce travel time and cost, lessen the stress placed on vulnerable or injured animals and increase chances of survival by facilitating quicker medical care. “It will also act as a halfway stop for wildlife rescued in the north of KZN and Zululand,” said Halkett-Siddall.

While progress has already been made, including a donation of perimeter fencing and one shipping container for storage and enclosures, there is still a long way to go before the centre can open its doors.

“We’re trying to keep costs as low as possible while maintaining the highest standards,” said Halkett-Siddall. “We still need help with moving another shipping container approximately 1km to the site, as well as fencing, poles for a small mammal enclosure, welded mesh and steel square tubing for bird of prey enclosures.”

The organisation is also collecting money for a wooden cabin that will house the site caretaker. The structure, which will amount to around R30 000, is important in terms of ensuring that animals are under 24-hour monitoring. Halkett-Siddall said there is also a need for gum poles and roof sheeting to provide shelter for the shipping containers.

“We’re hoping to open as soon as possible, but that will hinge on how quickly we can secure the rest of the funding and sponsorships. The two largest things holding us back are the caretaker cabin and the transportation of the second shipping container,” he said.

Individuals and businesses wishing to assist can do so by making a donation of funds, materials or services.

Banking details:

Bank: First National Bank

Account: 50770230859

Branch code: 222126

SWIFT/BIC: FIRNZAJJ

Reference: Wendy House

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