Katherine C.

My journey into wildlife rehabilitation began unexpectedly on a busy street in New York City. On my way to work, I found an injured pigeon lying on the sidewalk. I had no idea who to call or how to help. Despite my best efforts, that pigeon passed away during the night, and I promised myself that I would never again be unprepared when an animal needed help.

That experience led me to volunteer with experienced pigeon rehabilitators throughout New York City, where I learned the basics of wildlife care and discovered a passion for giving injured and orphaned animals a second chance.

After moving to New Orleans, I once again found an injured pigeon and quickly realized that there are very few resources for pigeon rehabilitation in the area. Wanting to expand my knowledge and help even more wildlife, I began working with Silent Voices Wildlife Rehabilitation and learned to care for orphaned opossums.

Over time, I discovered that I have a special connection with neonatal opossums. Many rehabilitators are unable to accept these tiny babies because they require around-the-clock care, specialized tube feeding, careful temperature regulation, and constant monitoring. It is incredibly time-intensive, but it is also where I feel I can make the greatest difference.

An incubator would allow me to provide the stable warmth and humidity that orphaned neonatal opossums need to survive. It would increase the number of babies I can safely care for, improve their chances of survival, and give me the ability to assist other rehabilitators when they are overwhelmed during baby season.

Every rescued animal represents a second chance that might not have existed otherwise. What started with one pigeon on a New York sidewalk has grown into a commitment to helping the most vulnerable wildlife in my community. With the support of an incubator, I will be able to save more orphaned opossums and continue providing the specialized care that so few people are able to offer.