By Elizabeth Trickey
If it was possible, and you had the choice, what wild animal would you like to be? Something with a personality just like yours, or one that you aspire to be like? Let’s consider some of the many species that live at Procyon Wildlife during their rehabilitation.
How about a rabbit? They are very independent critters, having minimal contact with momma before heading out to seek their fortunes at only 3 weeks old! They are very energetic, always on the go, and when brought to our rehab for help, they never stay with us for very long. Rabbits are soft and fluffy, symbolizing fertility and prosperity. Sounds good, but you’d have to put up with big ears!
Maybe you’re smart and mischievous, and you don’t mind getting down and dirty to get a job done. Then a trash bandit might be the animal for you! Raccoons are curious creatures, which make them amazing problem solvers. They are also very adaptable to different environments, so you could live in a city, and have a cottage in the forest! These critters like to party at night, checking out a variety of food establishments, so be prepared to get a bit chonky!
Perhaps you are more of a social person, so a deer might be more to your liking. These animals live in herds, watching out for each other. Outside of their own species, they are shy and skittish, always on the alert for predators. Deer often represent kindness, freedom, and grace. They are great runners, jumpers, and swimmers. So if you are athletic, this might the animal for you.
Who doesn’t love watching the antics of chipmunks? And they look so cute with their cheeks full of food! But beware, they can be fierce little devils, protecting what is theirs! These critters are loners, spending a significant amount of time foraging for food and stockpiling it for the winter. They don’t like going out in the cold months, instead spending lots of time sleeping, then waking only to eat. Does that sound like you?
If you like going out at night, smelling good, and dressed formally in black and white, do I detect an affinity for skunks? These little stinkers are mild-mannered, avoiding or ignoring confrontations from others. Like skunks, if push comes to shove, you don’t take guff from anyone, and you will defend yourself if needed. These critters are patient and self-confident, knowing who they are and what they want out of life.
With foxes, family life is extremely important. They are one of the few mammals that stay in a family unit, with both parents taking an active role in child-rearing. Intelligent, playful, and cautious, these beautiful critters display a great capacity to love. Sadly, media has not treated foxes well. They are erroneously depicted as being sly and selfish. Is that like you? Do you feel misunderstood?
There are many other species that Procyon cares for – opossums, coyotes, squirrels, bats, porcupines, snakes, groundhogs, turtles, minks, and whatever else is brought to us. Maybe one of those critters is more like you. Consider sponsoring the critter that is your personality match. We might even name it after you!