Maria C.

I have always had an interest in and love for animals. I volunteered in dog & cat rescue for many years, down in the Hudson Valley. In 2020, I moved up to a rural area near Ithaca, NY, and being out in the country, I'm surrounded by wildlife. My love for working with animals, somewhat naturally, shifted to local wildlife. There is a great need for licensed wildlife rehabilitators in New York State, and I am drawn to learn what I can and be there for the local population of animals, and the community reaching out for help with these animals. I jumped right in, attending NYSWRC (New York State Wildlife Rehabilitation Council) conferences, studying, getting myself licensed by the State of New York, and volunteering with experienced rehabbers to learn the ins and outs. Over the last year and a half or so, I have set up a nice little rehabilitation space at my house and have taken in and cared for squirrels, flying squirrels, groundhogs, chipmunks, and opossums, always with the goal of rehabilitating and returning them to the wild. Let Wild Be Wild. Oftentimes, I care for orphaned and/or injured babies, who need the supportive care of an incubator. It's a large expense for me, especially after having set up two rehab areas in my house without any kind of financial assistance, which generally isn't available to wildlife rehabilitators. This work comes straight from the heart. Unfortunately, that doesn't pay the bills. If I can get my incubator funded, I'll be able to help more animals in need and concentrate my finances on the food, medication, and housing that these precious souls will need during the time they spend with me. Please consider donating to my incubator campaign and sharing it with friends and associates. Baby season 2026 has started, and I'd like to hit the ground running!