Wild animals face a variety of challenges that can leave them vulnerable, orphaned, injured, or worse. Many of those challenges are caused by human activity and interactions; these issues are seen in the thousands of wild animals that arrive at the Wildlife Center’s doorstep every year in need of care. Learn more about these ongoing issues, including suggestions and resources that help people of all ages be better neighbors to the animals that share our world. Many harms suffered by wild animals are preventable if we choose to take action to help protect them.
Lead Toxicosis
Poisoning from lead exposure is a significant cause of admission for eagles and other wildlife at the Wildlife Center of Virginia. Research shows that the problem is widespread, and that lead impacts a significant number of different wildlife species.
The Case for Indoor Cats
While many people love their kitties, free-roaming cats are a major threat to wildlife. These predators kill billions of birds and other small animals each year. And outdoor life exposes them to a variety of risks that can effect their health as well.
The Message of the Apple Core
Roadside litter has a devastating impact on wild animals, attracting animals toward the dangers of traffic. The Wildlife Center encourages you to remember “the message of the apple core” and share it with others.
Keeping Windows Safe for Birds
Every year huge numbers of songbirds and raptors are severely injured or die due to collisions with windows. Learn what you can do to prevent these collisions and to help birds receive medical attention when injured.
The Dangers of Balloon Debris
All released balloons fall back to the earth as litter, even if they burst and fall in many fragments. Balloons travel with the wind and have been found hundreds of miles from their original release location, presenting a significant risk to wildlife.
Tips for Helping Turtles
Turtle populations in Virginia are under severe stress. Many people encounter them crossing the roads or in their own backyards. Learn more about how to best help turtles, including when to call for help, and when to leave a wild turtle alone!
The Problem with Feeding Ducks
The act of feeding a duck a diet heavy in bread and other empty carbohydrates can lead to severe health consequences and a variety of other problems.
Fishing Tackle: Threats to Wildlife
Many species of wildlife can sustain injuries due to entrapment in, or ingestion of, fishing tackle. Clear your gear to help keep wildlife and the environment safe.
The Dangers of Glue Traps
Sticky traps often catch animals that are the unintended victims of the trap such as birds, snakes, lizards, and small mammals.
Rodenticide Poisoning in Wildlife
Rodenticides don't just harm the rodents they target. Thousands of wild animals are killed by these poisons every year.
Wildlife-Vehicle Collisions
Millions of animals are hit and killed by vehicles on roadways each year. While some wildlife-vehicle collisions are unavoidable, many can be prevented through the development of wildlife crossings.
