Wildlife Aid Brigade

A new wildlife initiative is being launched in the Metro DC area this spring. The project will involve volunteers interested in directly helping wild animals. It's called Wildlife Aid Brigade, and was created by Sue Lunson Farinato, a Maryland wildlife rehabilitator, to protect wild animals and their families.

Volunteer Responsibilities

Trained volunteers respond from animal shelters to calls regarding injured, ill or possibly orphaned wild animals, including mammals, birds and reptiles. The volunteer travels to the site and determines the species of the animal, the age and health of the animal, and whether it actually needs help. The volunteer also transports the animal to a nearby shelter if necessary. The volunteer educates the caller about the natural history of the species, and the volunteer addresses any public health or safety concerns. Training will be provided by four wildlife rehabilitators from Maryland.

Requirements

You must be a current League volunteer to participate in the Wildlife Aid Brigade. If you are a volunteer, you may contact Jennifer Newman at (703) 931-9241 x213 or by e-mail at jnewman@awla.org. If you are not currently a volunteer, you may print a volunteer application here, request one by calling the above-listed number, or pick one up at the League. Be sure to note on the application that you are interested in the Wildlife Aid Brigade. You may return the application by mail, e-mail, fax or hand delivery. Click here for the fax number and address of the League. Once we receive your application, we will contact you to schedule an orientation. Please note that additional training is required before a volunteer may start working with the Wildlife Aid Brigade.

You can also learn more about the effort at http://www.wildlifeaidbrigade.org or by e-mailing the project at info@wildlifeaidbrigade.org.