THE Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (Crow) is calling on the community to help construct pre-release cages for the rehabilitated garden birds, as well as to identify possible release sites.
Also read: Crow launches new wildlife calendar
Clint Halkett Siddall, Crow’s director, said these cages and sites are quite important in ensuring the success of the rehabilitation process. “Choosing the right release site is crucial for giving our rehabilitated animals the best chance to thrive in the wild,” he said. Factors considered in selecting such sites include species, habitat, food and water availability, and places with low levels of human activity and predators.
Rehabilitated wildlife are normally released delicately. Halkett Siddall said, “The enclosures are set up at the release site, allowing the birds to view their surroundings while remaining safely enclosed. This step helps reduce stress before they are fully released and regain their independence.”
These pre-release cages help the birds get accustomed to the local environment and help them identify any predators in the vicinity and regional climate before they are completely released into the wild.
Halkett Siddall is seeking the public’s assistance in building these cages to make the adjustment back into the wild easier for birds.
Donate:
Anyone interested in supporting the cause should contact Crow’s clinic on 031 462 1127 or email clinic@crowkzn.co.za. Crow will send a form for the location to assess whether it is suitable as a release site.
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