Peace River Wildlife Center

 

Stopping at the Peace River Wildlife Center in Punta Gorda, FL was a worthwhile endeavor, the wounded and healed birds and turtles are the focus but the staff are the stars.  We were barely out of the car when a guide noticed us staring up at the huge nest that had a fledgling great blue heron perched on top.  I use the word fledgling with a smile as this bird was over two feet tall and had yet to leave the nest.  The guide told us the bird was the lone survivor his siblings having been killed when they fell out of the nest while still unable to fly, with that kind of example we could understand why this guy wanted to be sure of his wings before lifting off.

Each critter at the center was rescued from either nature or people, most will never return to their wild habitats as their injuries are to severe.  Flat Sammy the turtle whose shell never rounded because his owners did not feed him the correct diet for shell development, the beautiful little blue jay without a tail, Luna the white owl whose lack of pigment would make her a fast and easy meal for any predator, a  sandhill crane minus a leg, pelicans with broken wings, the tortoise whose front feet and one eye were chewed off by the family dog all beautiful creatures saved by donations. Being a avian fan helps make the experience more enjoyable but just being in the park enjoying Charlotte Harbor, the view and park make this a great stop for most tourists.  Make sure to contribute generously at the Peace River Wildlife Center.                                               

Luna

                                                            There was a white pelican that was putting on really big show, flapping and rolling in the small pond that houses the bigger shore birds.  The bird with one stubby half wing did not seem to notice his impairment.  Non captive visitors fly in especially at feeding times, seems they learn quickly what time chow comes.  

Actually he can float but rolling is his thing

This guy has a flat back but not from his brother riding on him

                                                            Perhaps you have seen one of my past blogs and know that I have a special place in my heart for Sandhill Cranes, these magnificent birds are frequent visitors to my Indiana home and I have chased down several over the years.  This guy posed eagerly for my lens, his color not a vibrant as back home but his manner was definitely calmer.
                                                      

Fluffy owl feathers for petting...

Bad Dog...thank you Peace River Wildlife Center

It is absolutely wonderful that this organization exists, there are so many good people out there taking care of animals, lots of great places to volunteer or fund.

Blue Jay...where's my tail?