News

Each spring and summer in Alberta, baby birds begin their journey from fragile hatchlings to independent adults. At WILDNorth, we see firsthand how quickly they grow through each stage—hatchling, nestling, fledgling, and juvenile. While it’s common to worry when a young bird is found on the ground, many are simply learning to fly under the watchful care of their parents. Understanding these stages helps ensure we give wildlife the best chance to thrive in their natural environment.

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Every spring, WILDNorth sees an influx of Red Fox kits that appear to be alone, but in most cases, they’re right where they should be. Though it’s tempting to intervene, these young foxes are often simply exploring while their attentive parents watch from a distance. Before taking action, it’s crucial to pause, assess, and reach out to experts, because when it comes to wildlife, the best care is usually keeping them with their own family in the wild.

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Before most of the city has had its first coffee, the day is already underway at WILDNorth. From preparing diets and cleaning enclosures to monitoring the smallest changes in patient behaviour, volunteers are at the heart of every moment. This behind-the-scenes work may go unseen, but it is essential, shaping each animal’s journey from rescue to release, one careful, consistent act at a time.

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Striped Skunks may have a strong odor, but they are non-aggressive, intelligent animals that play an important role in the ecosystem. Commonly found in urban areas, especially during spring breeding season, they often den under decks or porches, sometimes without homeowners even realizing. While it may be tempting to remove them, trapping and relocation can orphan young and reduce survival rates. Instead, humane solutions like removing attractants, using deterrents, and properly excluding animals after they leave are the most effective ways to manage conflicts and coexist peacefully with these fascinating mammals.

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“Find a baby Hare? Leave it right there!” Baby hares may look small, helpless, and alone, but they are rarely in need of rescue. Drawing from years of hands-on experience, Belinda Cornish, a WILDNorth volunteer, shares the surprising truth about how difficult these animals are to raise, and why the best thing you can do is often the hardest: leave them where they are.

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Each spring in Edmonton, Canada Geese return to nest in some surprising urban locations, and their behaviour can often be misunderstood. That lone goose standing in a parking lot or on a sidewalk isn’t injured; he’s a protective “papa goose,” standing guard over his nesting mate nearby. Learn how to recognize normal nesting behaviour, prevent unwanted nesting on your property, when to call WILDNorth for assistance, and peacefully coexist with wildlife during this busy season.

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WILDNorth is preparing for the return of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) during spring migration with enhanced safety protocols, including a dedicated isolation ward and full PPE for staff. Learn how this disease affects wildlife, what signs to watch for, and how you can help keep both yourself and local birds safe by contacting our helpline instead of intervening directly.

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Window strikes are one of the most common causes of injury in wild birds, especially during spring migration. In this blog, learn what happens after a bird is admitted into care at WILDNorth, and how simple actions at home can help prevent these incidents and protect wildlife.

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