Ever Want to Be a Wildlife Den Mother?

EAST GREENWICH, RI —The Wildlife Rehabilitators Association of Rhode Island needs your help with raising healthy, orphaned wild birds and animals, according to Kristin Fletcher, executive director.

Each year, the Wildlife Clinic of RI and its associated wildlife rehabilitators receive hundreds of orphaned baby animals and birds that must be raised to release age.

As a result, a special level of licensing was created to allow trained individuals to assist. This in-depth course is designed to cover topics ranging from infant nutrition and feeding skills to housing and state regulations.

Courtesy Photo of Three Baby Bunnies: Traer Scott

Two options for wildlife rehabilitation classes are currently scheduled for 2017. A one-day training is set for Saturday, Jan. 21, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 186 Amaral St., Riverside.

The second training will be held on two evenings, February 6 and 9, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., at the East Greenwich Free Library, 82 Pierce Street, East Greenwich. This class, required by RI state regulation for licensing, will cover the proper way to raise orphaned baby squirrels, eastern cottontail rabbits, opossum and songbirds.

Class space is limited so pre-registration is required. Course fee is $50.00. For more information or to register, go to www.riwildliferehab.org/events or call the Wildlife Clinic at (401) 294-6363.

Courtesy Photo: WRARI