By Grae O’Toole, Director, Center for Wild Bird Rehabilitation and Ambassador Care
In the heart of Vermont, our Center for Wild Bird Rehabilitation and Conservation (CWBRAC) has just completed its most extraordinary year yet. In 2024, we admitted an unprecedented 1,254 avian patients, shattering our previous record of 1,098. This remarkable achievement represents our commitment to wildlife conservation and the growing need for wildlife rehabilitation services in our region.
The Summer Surge
Our yearly data reveals a fascinating pattern in wildlife rehabilitation needs. The period from May through August proves to be our most demanding season, accounting for 71% of our annual intake. During these crucial months, our dedicated team manages an average of 13 new patients daily, each requiring detailed intake examinations and personalized treatment plans.
The challenge becomes even more complex when considering our youngest patients. Baby birds require intensive care, including specialized feeding schedules as frequent as every 30 minutes from 6 AM to 8 PM. This summer, we set a new record with 507 baby birds in our care, surpassing our previous record of 443.
A Decade of Growth
Looking at our historical data, the growth in demand for our services is striking. Between 2000-2015, we averaged 378 patients annually. However, in just the past eight years (2016-2024), that average has skyrocketed to 842 patients per year – a remarkable 55% increase. This dramatic upward trend highlights both the increasing challenges facing our wild bird populations and the vital role of wildlife rehabilitation centers.
Even more significant is our impact on statewide wildlife rehabilitation efforts. According to the Vermont Permit Specialist, VINS now handles 75% of all bird rehabilitation cases in Vermont, making us the primary resource for injured and orphaned birds in the state.
Success Through Challenge
Despite the unprecedented volume of patients, our team maintained a consistent 40% release rate – a testament to our commitment to quality care. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given that we handled 150 more birds than our previous busiest year while making careful triage decisions during peak periods.
Our Most Common Patients
The year brought us a diverse array of species, with songbirds comprising roughly 50% of our total intakes. Our top three most frequent patients were:
- American Robin (136 patients – 11%)
- Barred Owl (119 patients – a new record!)
- Eastern Phoebe (72 patients – 6%)
Breaking Records Across the Board
2024 wasn’t just about total numbers; we set new records in multiple categories:
- Most species cared for: 108 (previous record: 105)
- Highest number of releases: 457 (previous record: 432)
- Busiest July ever: 284 admissions (previous record: 218)
- Record Broad-winged Hawk admissions: 63 (previous record: 35)
A Team Effort
At our busiest point, we had over 170 birds simultaneously requiring care on campus. This immense undertaking would not have been possible without our exceptional team of staff and volunteers. From preparing specialized diets and feeding schedules to maintaining pristine facilities and providing medical care, every team member played a crucial role in our success.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our baby bird volunteers and exhibit care volunteers who managed our ambassador birds, allowing our rehabilitation staff to focus on intensive care patients. Special recognition goes to our dedicated team members Bren, Celia, Claire, Julie, Mary, Rachael, and Michelle, whose tireless efforts ensured that every patient received the highest quality care, even during our most challenging moments.
As we reflect on this record-breaking year, we’re reminded of the vital importance of wildlife rehabilitation and the incredible impact that dedicated individuals can have on wildlife conservation. While we celebrate these achievements, we also recognize that our work is more crucial than ever as we continue to serve as a sanctuary for Vermont’s wild birds in need.
To support VINS’ wildlife rehabilitation efforts or learn more about our work, please visit our website or consider making a donation to help us continue providing essential care to Vermont’s wild birds.