Introduction to Bird Care presented by Rena Robinson

Why does our wildlife need our help?

Our wildlife populations are decreasing at rapid rates thanks to climate change, urban sprawl and the consequent loss of habitat, cars, dogs, cats, foxes, poisoning and many other human related issues. When concerned members of the public find wildlife that is sick, injured or orphaned, they look to vets and wildlife volunteers to step in and help. In a future of climate change, wildlife carers will be more important than ever.

Introduction to Bird Care Course Outline

Presented by Rena Robinson of Wildlife Welfare Organisation Inc. (WWO)

Are you interested in becoming a wildlife volunteer?

What will you get out of it?

• Learn how to rescue sick, injured or orphaned birds
• Help with research data collection
• Receive mentoring and further training
• Work with like minded people

Topics covered:

• The different species
• The basics of rescuing, triaging and first care for birds
• Various common illnesses in birds
• Housing requirements
• Aviaries and cages
• Feeding - chicks to adults
• Release back to the wild – going home

Requirement of a volunteer wildlife carer:

• A current drivers licence and a car
• Ability to commit your time – includes native food collection, regular feed schedule, cleaning enclosures
• Permits

The costs for helping and rehabilitating birds include:

• at least one indoor cage and 
• one outdoor aviary
• ongoing bird formula and food
• equipment such as feeding syringes, a basket, heat pad, thermometer
• petrol costs for going on rescues and driving to collect native food
• a smartphone and or a computer for data collection

If this is not for you but you still want to help we also need help with:

• Rescuing animals to take them to another carer or vet
• Transport animals already contained to a carer or vet
• Volunteers to collect gum leaf for other carers
• Fundraising
• Writing for or monitoring social media
• Grant writing
• Approaching potential sponsors

Field practical and theory will run from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm on site at Wildlife Welfare Organisation rehabilitation centre.

09:45am Registration. 

PURCHASE TICKET NOW - LIMITED PLACES - 15 people max per course

Ticket sales end Sat 3rd May 2025, 12:00 pm ACST

Course cost $70 includes SOWFI annual membership.

Wildlife Welfare Organisation (SA) Inc., Goolwa

We hope at the end of the session you would like to commit to becoming an active member and contributing to our vision to be the leading organisation in the wildlife rescue and rehabilitation sector in South Australia.

Event Queries - text Bridget - 0473 173 822