The Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre introduced all of their non-releasable ambassador animals to over 500 supporters at an open house and fundraiser in Iles Des Chenes over the weekend.

Board Member Steve Loney says it is the first time they have had their entire lineup of working ambassador animals all in one spot to visit with the public. He says they have a Hog Nose Snake, a few salamanders, and a variety of birds including a Great Horned Owl, a Barn Owl, and an American Kestral which is part of the falcon family.

“Our latest and greatest ambassador is a Mississippi Kite and she is very unique because she shouldn't be here. Her parents laid an egg in Winnipeg, but that particular species of bird is found in and around the Texas area. She is the only one of her kind in Canada.”

Loney says it is baby season in the wildlife world and the Centre is starting to see more baby animals as the weather gets warmer.

“We are starting to see an influx of baby rabbits and baby racoons, and just to avoid any inadvertent kidnapping of any animals we just want to remind people, if you care, leave it there. Observe the animal for a while, see if the parents check on it and then if you do find that the animal is in distress just give us a call.”

Loney says this is a very big year for the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre because they have begun construction on new permanent home.

“They have secured some land in Iles Des Chenes. They have been fundraising to build that first permanent site and have raised 64% of the 2.5 million dollar goal. Construction is well under way. The walls are up, the roof, the siding is going on, but they need another million dollars to complete the project.”

Loney says the project will be completed in stages and the Wildlife Haven will raise the money necessary for finishing the entire campus rather then borrowing money. He notes they were able to raise over $9,000 for the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre operations fund.