Article by Jen Howard, images and videos by Jen, Peyton, Sarah, Melissa, and Mona
Approximate read time: 2 minutes
The month of September has been an exciting one for animal releases. And for volunteers. Wonderful happy releases.
The majority of our skunks have waddled away to begin their new lives in the wild. Paddling in the streams and digging up grubs. You would almost think they knew what they were doing. Of course they do; they’re wild.
As you will notice in the video below; sometimes it takes a little patience to move the wildlife back to the wild life. But in the video following you will see how truly special it is to release them to where they belong.
Raccoons get on their way very quickly, climbing trees and exploring the forest floor. They bounce along, so happy to be free to start their new adventures. Be safe little ones.
Two of our orphaned fox kits have gone home to romp and play in the fields. They came in tiny little ones fostered out for round the clock care. They grew into beautiful young foxes. Their release was fast as they ran and jumped into their future. They were very excited to get going. Just a beautiful perfect release.
From a helpless infant to a young adult ready for a life of freedom.
Our fawns had their release day as well. Beautiful fields, a forest, and pond and a nice running stream greeted the young deer as they gently came out of their carriers. Sniffing the ragweed and checking out the leaves. They didn’t run off as we had expected but took the time to smell the roses as they say. They checked everything out before they wandered off together into the forested area towards the pond.
As these little ones are starting their new lives in the wild, many others are still with us. We have a few small raccoons who will be overwintering and some wee red squirrels who came in as orphans not too long ago. And of course, other animals as well. We are far from being empty and will be taking care of quite a few animals over the winter until they are big enough to go home come spring .
It’s been a great release time for our volunteers, getting to see the critters they have put long hours into, finally go home. That is what it’s all about.
Jen Howard