FWMA LAUNCHES MEMBERSHIP DRIVE
The Florida Wild Mammal Association (FWMA) recently launched its annual Membership Drive and we, the FWMA Board and staff, are inviting all Wakulla Citizens to join us in this worthy endeavor. For 29 years the FWMA has been providing a community service to Wakulla and its surrounding counties through the rescue, rehabilitation and release of orphaned and injured birds and animals. In 2022 alone, over 1,700 birds and animals were received by our facility. Every bird or animal taken in has its own unique story: hit by a vehicle, injured by another animal, stuck in a fence, or displaced by clear cutting or a storm. Whatever the case, most arrive in shock and some with horrific injuries. And now it is BABY Season! Currently, 50 baby opossums have been orphaned and are being fed and nurtured for future release. Also dozens of baby birds, rabbits, squirrels, and raccoons are receiving care! The nursery is full!
The care provided by FWMA comes with a heavy price. And while we receive some grant funding, we receive no federal, state, or county funds. We are totally dependent on our fundraising efforts and membership donations to provide this level of care. To facilitate these efforts, we are urging all citizens to join us by making an annual donation of $25, $50, $100, $250 or any amount you choose. Donations can be mailed to FWMA P.O. Box 9, Panacea, FL 32346 or 198 Edgar Poole Road, Crawfordville, FL 32327. These donations will allow us to continue this community service by providing the special care needed to prepare the rescues for their return to the wild and best chance at survival.
FWMA has many exciting plans for its future. In 2024, we are hoping to establish a Wildlife Educational and Learning Center at the facility site so that Wakulla’s youth, and those of surrounding counties, can view first hand the work of the association, meet the staff and volunteers, learn how to be a responsible steward for our wildlife, and observe the birds and animals receiving our care.
To that end, please consider joining us in helping to keep Wakulla progressing, while maintaining and protecting a precious resource- its abundant wildlife.
I look forward to welcoming any and all who choose to join the efforts of this outstanding and worthy association.
Jane Christie Tillman
Member, FWMA Board