This time of year, baby birds are on the rise, especially at Deer Lake and Burnaby Lake parks. The above photos show baby geese at Piper Spit at Burnaby Lake.
Hundreds of species are nesting and providing a safe and warm place for their young to grow up, but that does not come without its challenges, according to Wildlife Rescue in Burnaby.
Wildlife Rescue's Support Centre is currently handling an influx of community calls for orphaned, injured and babies in distress. Admissions have increased by 74% since April of 2020, an increase of 500 more animals year-to-date who need help. Spring is a survival crisis for animals who are facing natural and human disturbances or lack of food sources.
Without proper care and nutrition, nestlings and fledglings face challenges in their environment including predator attacks, starvation, and death.
“Some indications of distress in birds on the ground include weakness/lethargy, soiling (with feces or anything else) and visible injuries such as blood or a drooping wing. If you are uncertain if the bird has injuries or needs assistance, please call or email our helpline for advice,” said Janelle Stephenson, hospital manager for Wildlife Rescue.
Spring is here at @BurnabyLakePark @CBCVancouver @IsabelleRaghem pic.twitter.com/kADqMcP2N5
— silvester Law (@silvesterlaw) May 2, 2021
As a non-profit organization, Wildlife Rescue relies on the generosity of donations to continue caring for injured, orphaned, and pollution-damaged wildlife. You can donate to help wild animals via the Wildlife Rescue website.
If members of the public see wildlife in distress, you can contact the Wildlife Help Centre at 604-526-7275.
