Oklahoma Wildlife Rehab Sees Surge in Animal Intakes Due to Climate Change and New Initiatives

Around 900 to 1,000 animals found a new home at WildCare’s 10-acre facility in Noble recently. This is just a small part of the many wildlife it helps each year, especially young animals that need support to thrive outdoors.

Executive Director Inger Giuffrida has noticed a growing need since she started in 2019. “Every year, our intake keeps increasing,” she said. This growth comes from several factors. More people in the area are becoming aware of WildCare, contributing to greater demand for its services. Climate change is also affecting wildlife. For instance, some species, like the black-bellied whistling duck, are moving north as temperatures rise.

The public’s interest in wildlife conservation is clear, with organizations like WildCare receiving increased attention. However, this also brings challenges. Giuffrida explains that while donations are rising, expenses are growing too. The organization has to balance funds between caring for the animals and hiring more staff. “We need all the money to care for the animals; that’s our main priority,” she said.

During a recent fundraising baby shower, WildCare raised about $42,000. This supports their operating budget of over $1.7 million. Despite applying for public funding through initiatives like the American Rescue Plan Act, WildCare has faced rejections. Currently, its or has to rely on donations from individuals and local businesses.

Statistics reveal the urgent need for wildlife advocacy. According to a recent study, around 1 million animals die on roads daily in the U.S. Additionally, research indicates that nearly 1 billion birds are lost each year due to collisions with buildings. Giuffrida emphasizes the importance of wildlife, stating, “They matter because they matter.”

The collective effort towards wildlife preservation is crucial, not just for the animals themselves but for maintaining biodiversity and ecological health. WildCare serves as a reminder that our actions today shape the world for future generations.



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