Nesting season must be in full swing when CWC holds its Wildlife Baby Shower! Many people look forward to this annual event as a celebration of Spring's arrival. The Carolina Wildlife Care Baby Shower offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a wildlife rehabilitation center. Watch as CWC staff and volunteers feed and care for small, orphaned wildlife babies. Hear the stories behind their arrival. Learn all that goes into re-introducing an animal back into the wild and even meet some of CWC's special non-releasable "wildlife ambassadors."

Wildlife ambassadors accompany CWC wildlife educators into schools where "their" stories are told to teach others about the realities facing wildlife today and the important roles that different species play in our environment.

We look forward to sharing with you the exciting things happening at CWC. And while the thrill of seeing wildlife up close will never change, other things at the Center often do! So, please come and see for yourself the hard work and dedication that goes into making Carolina Wildlife Care unlike any other place in S.C.!

Special Breakfast : This year, join Carolina Wildlife Care for a special "Breakfast with the Birds" from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 am on Saturday morning. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast of muffins, assorted pastries, coffee and juice while getting your own semi-private visit of the Center before it opens to the public. In lieu of a gift, the price for this "early bird special" is $15.00 per person. A limited number of spaces are available. To reserve your place, call 803-772-3994 or send an email to carolinawildlifecare@sc.rr.com

Saturday, April 21 10:00 am to 4:00 pm AND Sunday, April 22 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm

The price of admission is a wildlife baby shower gift from the CWC Wish List, but cash and gift card donations are always welcome! These donations are a wonderful way to jump start the season with supplies. Items from the wish list include the following:

Tide or All FREE Laundry Detergent- Bounce or All FREE Dryer Sheets - Liquid Bleach- Paper Towels (not pick-a-size)- Canned Vegetables- Pedialyte- Jars of Baby Food- Antibacterial Dish Soap- Dishwasher Detergent - Bird Seed - Purina Cat Chow Indoor Formula - Science Diet Kitten

November at Carolina Wildlife Care started off with a bang! Upgrades were being made and new cages were installed, all working out beautifully. CWC had just held its first state conference on wildlife rehabilitation, which was a great success. And, the Center received its approval as a USDA licensed facility. Things were certainly moving in the right direction, but I was about to be blind sided.

Traveling home from the Center late one late November evening, a sudden movement from the side of the road caught my eye. Just as I realized what was coming my way, a large buck jumped over a fence and landed in my lane. It is amazing how quickly your brain thinks and your body reacts in such an unexpected situation. In a split second, I checked the review mirror, slammed on brakes, blew my horn and closed my eyes- all in time to feel the impact. Hitting him was unavoidable. As I opened my eyes, I saw a large rack of antlers and two enormous, powerful hind legs roll across the road in front of my car onto the grassy edge. The buck leveled a road sign before quickly up righting himself. I was in complete bewilderment as to what had just happened!

I try to be a cautious and attentive driver, especially when it comes to watching for animals. My eyes are always scanning for any hint of movement or for the reflection of a pair of eyes. But on that evening, I had hit a very large deer and was jolted to the dangerous realties of roadways and wildlife. My first thought was * Am I okay?* After a quick assessment, I knew that I was fine. My next thought turned to the animal, *Is the deer okay?* The buck was visibly shaken and his antler broken and dangling. He ran parallel to the road and my car for about 20-30 feet before disappearing into the woods. Now, my attention turned to the vehicle. It*s moving* that has to be good, right? Ironically, that afternoon, my husband had decided to pay off the car a year early. I was now was the proud owner of a wrecked Sequoia... certainly not news that I looked forward to sharing with Steve.

Upon hearing the story and seeing the vehicle, my husband responded, *I*m glad you didn*t get hurt by flipping your trying to miss him.* He had a point. Many people often swerve trying to avoid hitting animals only to get hurt themselves. And while I was glad that no human lives were injured, I was sad that once again man and nature had collided. No one is immune to the impact that they have on wildlife and it on us. Encounters, both happy and sad, are inevitable.

As spring approaches, wildlife becomes more active in search of food or a mate. Everyone can play a role in protecting wild animals who wander near our roads and highways by following some easy tips when driving. See page 6 "Tips for Avoiding Collision With Wildlife."

The car was towed away, a rental car was reserved, and an insurance claim was made. But my sleepless night could mostly be attributed to worrying about the deer. I knew that if he were injured there may be no saving him, but the thought of his suffering was unbearable. The following morning, my husband and I made an unsuccessful attempt to track the deer. Six thousand pounds of steel verses 200 pounds of animal. Perhaps the animal fared better than the machine* this time. At least, that is what I am choosing to believe. Stay alert and stay safe.

Best wishes,Joanna

Admissions:The dedicated staff and volunteers of Carolina Wildlife Care cared for 3,188 animals that arrived at its wildlife center in 2006. Patients included 1,503 songbirds and waterfowl, 1,589 mammals, and 96 reptiles and amphibians representing 102 different species of wildlife.

Seventy-one species of birds were admitted, from backyard songbirds like blue jays and cardinals to less common species like an elusive sora and and a red-breasted grosbeak. More than 56% of the birds admitted for care were rehabilitated and released. Overall for the year, CWC admitted 403 fewer birds in 2006 than in 2005.

Fifteen different species of mammals and sixteen species of reptiles and amphibians were treated. More than 65% of mammals and 71% of reptiles were released back into the wild. As expected, the majority of mammalian patients were eastern gray squirrels, Virginia opossoms, and eastern cottontails, followed by southern flying squirrels, raccoons, and white-tail fawns. The number of mammalian patients increased by 144 patients over the previous years, and 2006 went down as the largest number of mammals received in the Center's 17-year history. This continues an unsettling, upward trend of mammal intakes increasing more than 10% over the previous year.

The most admitted reptile in 2005 was the yellow-belly slider, but in 2006 it was surpassed by the eastern box turtle. The most common reasons for its arrival were hit by car and attacked by dogs. CWC also received a surprisingly larger number of snakes- 5 species for a total of 19 snakes. Some of these snakes did require medical attention, but the vast majority were brought in for relocation. Public education is key in helping others understand that the benefits of snakes far outweigh any risks that they pose. Relocation is not necessary.

Why The Overall Decline In Songbirds?More than a third of the decrease in songbird admissions can be attributed to the large number of cedar waxwings admitted in 2005 due to window strikes. Also, heavy rainfall in early season follow by a late season cold snap may have wiped out some early season nests.

However, a surprising decline was also seen in the number of chimney swift admissions. Only 28 swifts were admitted to CWC as compared to 86 in 2005 and 130 in 2004. While better education on returning fallen swifts to chimneys is likely a contributing factor, CWC questioned whether late season hurricanes played a role in the decline. CWC contacted Paul and Georgean Kyle, project directors of the Driftwood's North American Chimney Swift Nest Site Research Project. Paul and Georgean responded, "On the down side, the very late season Hurricane Wilma took a heavy toll on Chimney Swifts and many other species of migratory birds last fall (2005) -- especially those that migrate along the east coast. The sad fact is that productivity is no long outpacing mortality." In addition to Chimney Swifts, dozens of species were likely impacted, including several species of swallows and yellow-billed cuckoos.

What Do The Numbers Mean?Now more than ever, the pressures that development is placing on our native wildlife must be understood. As humans and wildlife compete for the same living space, problems arise, but it is important to exercise patience and understanding.

Many of the young arriving at CWC each spring are not in need of rescue, but are being taken away from parents as they watch from a nearby location. When babies are removed from their parents unnecessarily and brought to CWC, fewer spaces are available for those animals truly needing a second chance.

Most human-wildlife conflicts are easily solved with simple modifications to our homes and daily routines. Perhaps you use a different door until that nest of wrens fledge, or you wait another month before removing a tree with a nest in it. These are short-term, minor inconveniences that will allow nature to run its course without unnecessary intervention.

Carolina Wildlife Care plays a key role in addressing many of the challenges facing wildlife today. No one can do as good a job as "Mom", but CWC will continue its work to insure that injured and orphaned wildlife get a second chance when they need it most.

The inaugural event "Coming Together for Wildlife" conference hosted by CWC was a huge success! The Ndoki Lodge at Riverbanks Zoo provided the perfect back drop for the weekend gathering of 120 wildlife rehabilitators, veterinarians and animal care professionals from the Carolinas. Everyone was thrilled at this chance to network with others, learn new information and techniques, ask questions and solve problems in hopes of improving the care given to wildlife. The conference provides a unique learning opportunity that many rehabilitators may not otherwise have, and it also brings a new level of competence and interest to the growing field of wildlife rehabilitation in South Carolina.

Sixteen speakers from across the Carolinas covered a variety of topics from basic animal care and husbandry to medical concerns and zoonotic disease. Participants not only left the conference excited and equipped with a greater understanding of wildlife, but several vendors donated wonderful gifts and everyone had a chance to leave with one. Chris Clark from Chris's Squirrels and More set up a fantastic display of supplies and gifts for the wildlife rehabber, so few left empty handed.

Even though wildlife rehabilitators receive no state or federal support, the wildlife rehabilitator's role is only growing in importance. Wildlife rehabilitators serve as "first responders" for sick and injured wildlife. And with the threats of emerging zoonotic diseases like H5N1 Avian Influenza and West Nile Virus, they can play a crucial part in early detection.

Carolina Wildlife Care is proud to be a facilitator for wildlife rehabilitation and conservation in South Carolina. A program of this quality would not have been possible without the support of the SC Association of Veterinarians, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, the guest speakers, and all contributors. Thanks for supporting wildlife rehabilitation in S.C.!

"Coming Together for Wildlife " Event Sponsers- South Carolina Association of Veterinarians- Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

Other Conference Supporters- Wild Birds Unlimited Village at Sandhill- Chris's Squirrels and More- Fox Valley Animal Nutrition- National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association- Nature's Way- S.C Embroidery

Nothing is more exciting, or scary, than finding baby wildlife. Of course you want to help it, but many of the "orphaned" animals arriving at the Center each spring are not orphaned or in need of rescue. Instead, babies are mistakenly taken away from parents as they watch from a hidden location. Please consider the following tips BEFORE bringing a wild baby to CWC. Despite our best efforts, the baby will have the best chance for survival with its parents.

If uninjured, baby birds and squirrels should be returned to the nest. The babies must be warm (placing in a sock filled with warmed, dry rice works well). If the nest is too high, create a substitute nest using a wicker or hanging basket lined with straw. Place it close to the original nest. Watch for 3 hours from afar to ensure parents return before bringing to a rehabilitator.

Fledgling songbirds hop on the ground for several days before flying. If parents are seen nearby, these birds are not in need of rescue. Unfortunately, outside cats are in every neighborhood and this is not enough reason alone to intervene. However, despite the presence of cats, the parents need to be the ones to raise the baby. Either keep cats indoors during this time, or turn on sprinklers to keep neighbors' cats away.

Fawns and bunnies are left alone for long periods, only being fed at dusk and dawn. If you stumble across them, unless the parent is KNOWN to be dead or there are obvious signs of injury or illness, it is best to back away and leave these animals alone. Parents intentionally stay away from the baby so as not to attract predators. Chances of seeing the parents are remote.

For additional information when deciding to "rescue" a baby, please visit the CWC website at www.carolinawildlife.org.

An adult pied billed grebe arrived at the Center with fishing line wrapped around the entire lower part of its beak. The bird was unable to close its beak or pull in its tongue, much less eat. After unwrapping the fishing line, it became apparent that he had ingested the hook. An x-ray revealed that the hook had reached his stomach. Surgery was required to remove the hook, but after a brief stay at Sunset Animal Clinic and a short recovery time at the Center, the grebe was released back onto Lake Murray

A brown snake was admitted after being accidently sliced by a garden rake. The pencil-size snake suffered lacerations to the mid and lower section of his body. The snake's wounds were cleaned, sutured and he was given antibiotics to prevent infection. The little snake is still recovering, but it is expected to be released within weeks.

An adult beaver was dropped off at CWC early one morning after being hit by a car. The beaver was likely looking for a new home to settle into before mating season. Showing no function in its hind legs, the beaver was taken in for further examination. X-rays revealed several broken ribs and a fractured spine. Not being able to recover from such a traumatic injury, the beaver had to be euthanized.

Two 5-week old southern flying squirrels arrived in mid January after a car hit a pole knocking it down and killing the mother nesting inside. The orphaned flying squirrel babies were a bit scared upon arrival, but otherwise fine. They are both are active and continue to thrive. Both flyers will be ready for release in early spring.

As animals become more active this time of year looking for mates and nesting locations, it is important to stay alert and do your best to avoid collision with wildlife. The Humane Society of The United States offers the following tips to reduce the likelihood of this happening:

Scan the edges of the road for wildlife about to cross; be especially cautious on roads bordered by fields or natural habitats. Many wild animals, especially deer, prefer edge habitats where fields and forests converge.

Expect increased wildlife activity at dawn and at dusk and in the first few hours after darkness falls.

Dim dashboard lights slightly to increase your ability to see the reflection of headlights in the eyes of animals. Use your high beam lights along unlighted streets, but be sure to avoid blinding oncoming cars.

Increase your following distance. You*ll not only be able to react if an animal runs out into the roadway, you can also avoid hitting a car slowing down to avoid hitting an animal.

Assume that animals do not know to get out of your way. Young animals, in particular, do not recognize cars as a threat. Use extreme caution when attempting to rescue an injured animal or remove a dead animal from the road.

Don't use a cell phone while driving. The distraction makes it harder to spot an animal and slows your reaction time.

The HSUS offers a free "Give Wildlife a Brake" bumper sticker that reminds drivers to be cautious. Send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to "Give Wildlife a Brake," The HSUS, 2100 L St., NW, Washington, DC 20037.

Please consider making a special gift now to help Carolina Wildlife Care continue its important mission of helping injured and orphaned wildlife return to its natural environment. Click here to make a donation today! Thank you for caring and taking action to help wildlife!

Remembering CWC in your final wishes is a wonderful way to leave a lasting legacy. Supporting Carolina Wildlife Care, Inc. through planned giving costs little or no money to implement and is a great way to ensure that your assets go directly towards making a difference for wildlife. As a 501(c) 3 organization, Carolina Wildlife Care, Inc has the opportunity to pursue many different avenues of planned giving based upon the wishes of the donor. However, the most common ways of supporting Carolina Wildlife Care through planned giving are by either designating CWC as the beneficiary in your will, by a gift of a life insurance policy, or a gift of a 401K.

To make a gift to Carolina Wildlife Care by will or bequest, you simply leave a specified dollar amount to the organization. For example, *I give the sum of $_____ to the Trustees of Carolina Wildlife Care, Inc. a 501(c) 3 charitable organization located in Columbia, SC.*

Some supporters may have life insurance policies that were purchased long ago and are no longer needed, or there may be no surviving family members who will need the policy. You may wish to leave the policy to Carolina Wildlife Care or designate CWC as the beneficiary. A charitable deduction may be claimed for approximately the surrender value of the policy.

In the event that a 401K is no longer needed for retirement or family members, it can also be donated to Carolina Wildlife Care. This can be advantageous for tax purposes, as the entire value of the 401K can be donated without any tax penalties.

While it is relatively simple to make the types of gifts above, Carolina Wildlife Care strongly encourages all of its supporters to explore the different avenues of planned giving under the guidance of a professional financial advisor. If you have any questions regarding planned giving and Carolina Wildlife Care, please contact Joanna Weitzel at (803) 238-9470. If you have already included Carolina Wildlife Care in your estate planning, please let us know so we can add you to the CWC Legacy Circle.

CWC Receives Grant For Education Exhibit:Carolina Wildlife Care is thrilled to have been awarded a grant from a private donor through the Central Carolina Community Foundation to implement an interactive education program directed towards elementary school age children. Carolina Wildlife Care will integrate the use of wildlife ambassadors with a *hands-on* education exhibit incorporating three components: Humans and Wildlife... Sharing Living Space, Urban Wildlife*As Close As Your Own Back Yard, and Keeping the *Wild* In Wildlife. As students meet live animals; study fur, feathers, nests, shells and other specimens; children get a unique opportunity to explore and personally experience the natural world up close. They learn about the importance of conserving South Carolina*s wildlife and in protecting its natural resources. CWC has designed the exhibit to be a fun and engaging way for young people to learn through experience about wildlife while being introduced to the important concept of conservation. The new program will be available to schools in August, 2007.

Website Redesign Provides Visitors Easier Access: Within the next month, the Carolina Wildlife Care website will be getting a beautiful, new look from the team at 18th Street Design. CWC has outgrown its current website and the redesign will betterwill better address the growing needs and challenges facing wildlife and the community. The new website will include additional information on CWC programs and provide a more streamlined menu making the site easier for visitors to use. The redesign should be completed before April. Until then, the current website (www.carolinawildlife.org) will still be accessible. Carolina Wildlife Care is seeking website sponsors to help offset costs associated with the redesign. If you would like more information about being a sponsor on the CWC website, please contact Joanna Weitzel at 803-238-9470.

Carolina Wildlife Care Introduces New Wildlife Rehabilitation Training Sessions: Carolina Wildlife Care will be offering a series of introductory wildlife rehabilitation training classes for wildlife rehabilitators throughout the Midlands. The Center will provide continuing-education training sessions to new and seasoned community-based wildlife rehabilitators. Initial classes will be offered in Florence, Aiken, Camden and Sumter. Anyone involved in the animal care profession is also encouraged to attend these training classes. Classes are taught by CWC staff and experienced rehabilitators. For additional information, or class schedules, please email us at carolinawildlifecare@sc.rr.com.