Category: Blog
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A helping hand saves his life: A Hawk’s Journey to Recovery
June 18, 2026 | Blog
The story following a Red-Tailed Hawk that was found in St Albert all the way to his recovery and release. From medication to treatments, this deep dive takes you on the ups and down of our work at the Hospital and Rehabilitation Center. Click and read the full story with images.
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Lead Poisoning, Recovery, and a Remarkable Reunion
May 28, 2026 | Blog
When a longtime Edmonton resident noticed the female Canada Goose that had nested on her balcony for 16 years could no longer stand, she knew something was terribly wrong. What followed was a remarkable rehabilitation journey involving lead toxicity treatment, intensive supportive care, and an unforgettable reunion between the goose and her mate. Patient 26-302’s story is a powerful reminder of both the challenges wildlife face in a human-shaped world and the incredible moments that make wildlife rehabilitation so meaningful.
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Loving Pets While Protecting Wildlife
May 22, 2026 | Blog
Every spring and summer, WILDNorth sees the unintended impact domestic cats and dogs can have on Alberta’s wildlife. From fledgling birds learning to fly to baby hares hiding in our yards, young wild animals are especially vulnerable during this season. By keeping cats indoors, supervising dogs, and giving wildlife space, pet owners can play an important role in protecting the animals that share our communities.
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A Second Chance: Reuniting Great Horned Owls in Edmonton, AB
May 15, 2026 | Blog
When two Great Horned Owlets fell from their nest in the middle of a busy Edmonton park, we stepped in to give them a second chance. After more than a month in rehabilitation and an uncertain reunification attempt, the young owls were successfully returned to their parents in a remarkable wildlife rescue story highlighting the importance of compassionate intervention, expert care, and respectful coexistence with urban dwelling wildlife.
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From Hatchling to Flight: Understanding Avian Development
May 05, 2026 | Blog
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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Red Fox Kits: Keeping Wildlife Wild
April 28, 2026 | Blog
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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The Impactful Difference of Volunteers
April 23, 2026 | Blog
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: Understanding, Preventing Conflict, and Coexisting Humanely
April 14, 2026 | Blog
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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The Hard Truth About Baby Hares: A Wildlife Volunteer’s Story
April 07, 2026 | Blog
“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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Understanding Canada Geese Nesting Season in Edmonton
March 31, 2026 | Blog
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.