The pectoral sandpiper released in this series of photographs was found injured up the north shore, was transported to Wildwoods where triage examination led to a referral to the exotic vets at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in St. Paul. The sandpiper was driven to St. Paul (on a car already headed that way), and cared for at WRC. When it was back to normal, it was loaded back onto a car headed back to Duluth (its other occupants filled with State Fair goodness), transported to Wildwoods, and eventually returned to Erik, who took these amazing pictures of his release.

We’re able to do this all on the cheap (and with a minimal carbon footprint) because all labor is donated, all transport is donated, and our colleagues at the WRC support us with their vet care. Love and the cost of medicines, foods, and equipment are what keep us afloat.

If you or your business make regular trips to Two Harbors, Grand Rapids, Hibbing, and especially the Twin Cities and you wouldn’t mind transporting a sandpiper (she fit into that little box) or a litter of baby raccoons or woodpecker or even a bald eagle once in a while to/from our vet partners in places like Two Harbors, Hibbing, Grand Rapids, or the Cities, please contact us at http://www.wildwoodsrehab.org/

There is so much more news to tell — the squirrel shed is filled with 18 babies, soon to be juveniles. These squirrels were orphaned or injured, or their parents were injured, and they were brought to us to feed, many of them before their eyes opened.

Young squirrels, like the very sweet one above, are starting to wander out of their nests, exploring their new territories.

They are very curious at this stage and haven’t yet developed fear of humans. In fact, they’re pretty interested in us since we’re vertical, just like their trees!

If you have squirrels following you around in the yard, just ignore them. They should find their way back to their original tree, or mom will come get them.

They’re just starting to eat solid food at this stage, so if you want to keep them occupied, you could put sunflower seeds or unsalted in-shell peanuts near the base of their tree.

If you have concerns that one may truly be orphaned, please call us first.

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And the cooper’s hawk, well, to learn about him and about our upcoming fundraiser on October 27th (we’ll be hoping for donations from local businesses for a raffle), visit our Facebook page. As always, contact us.