The South African Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, based in Vischkuil in Springs, visited the seniors at the Springs Seniors Citizens Club on May 15.

Speaking to the Springs Advertiser, the centre’s CEO and founder Judy Davidson said that the talk aimed to put their name out in the public space.

She added that the talk aimed to inform people about what to do if they come across an injured animal or bird, including where the centre is located, what services it provides, and how they can assist.

She explained that most of the animals brought to the centre are found by senior residents.

“They are the people who move around in the natural areas or gardens, and inevitably, it’s they who will notice something wrong with a bird or animal.

“So it is important that they know that we exist so they can phone us to get assistance,” said Davidson.

She advised that when people find injured animals, they should place them in a box on a soft cloth to keep them safe and out of danger.

Once the animal is no longer in a threatening situation, they should contact the centre, where staff will guide them on what to do next.

Davidson shared that the community, over the years, has supported the centre in various ways.

“A lot of the senior citizens, in particular, will come with a bag of fruit and vegetables, for instance, eggs or different types of food. So they assist us that way,” said the founder.

One of the attendees, Pam Reed, shared with the publication her insight from the talk. She said that she enjoyed everything, including learning about the diversity of animals.

“I enjoyed the fact that there is somebody there to help them because there is just so much cruelty. Not only accidents, but actually cruelty by people towards animals and birds, and to know there’s someone there who can help,” noted Reed.

As a senior, Reed highlighted the importance of the talk regarding the animals and creating awareness among all age groups.

“We should be educated to value wildlife, to know we are not the dominant species; we should just care. And I think education helps children learn about the wildlife,” she said.

With the information she received, Reed shared that when she sees an injured animal, she will try her best to take it to the centre. The wildlife centre is located at 63 First Street in Vischkuil, and Davidson can be contacted on 073 112 1131.

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