Anonymous
Source: Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network
Last night at 8pm, all 53 patients in care at the Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network were safely evacuated from the Wildlife Care Center on 1460 N. Fairview Ave.
The evacuation efforts began at 4:30pm when staff began crating animals they knew would be difficult to catch in the dark just in case. Staff and interns were able to bring plenty of food, dishware, syringes, heating pads, sheets, and towels for the patients.
All patients were taken to the Santa Barbara Humane Society where volunteers and staff met the Wildlife Care Network team to help transfer animals to the Education facility for temporary housing. Among the evacuated patients were two hooded orioles, two great-tailed grackles, dozens of pigeons and doves, a raccoon, a skunk, and more.
The next morning at 7am, three seabird patients were transported to International Bird Rescue in San Pedro. Three more patients were ready to be released back to the wild including the skunk. Some crows were transported to the Ojai Raptor Center for further care. All remaining animals ate their breakfast.
The Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network is happy to report that all animals have been moved back to the center as the evacuation order was lifted. Staff and volunteers will keep animals indoors until smoke and ash have cleared the air and outdoor caging has been cleaned.
