Bradenton Beach’s Wildlife Inc. has seen a spring surge in wildlife rescues.
The nonprofit, Manatee County’s primary wildlife rehabilitation center, was founded in 1987 by Ed and Gail Straight at their home, 2207 Avenue B, to rescue and rehabilitate injured, sick and orphaned animals.
Spring nesting season has brought a spike in intake.
“At this exact moment, we have taken in 803 animals this year, with about 130 currently in rehab — roughly 90 of them opossums,” Wildlife Inc. volunteer Krista Carpenter said April 21.
The nonprofit typically sees its highest caseload in spring and early summer, when increased wildlife activity and human interaction lead to more injuries and separations. Opossums, songbirds, and raptors are among the most commonly treated.
The influx is stretching staff and resources, increasing demand for food, medical care and space. Wildlife Inc. is asking the public for donations and volunteer help.
For more information, go to wildlifeinc.org or call 941-778-6324.