Native Fauna is a new nonprofit organization trying to raise enough funding and support to open a wildlife rehabilitation facility in the Salida, Colorado area. Its founder, Abbie Fritz, is a seasoned rehabilitator, licensed through Colorado Parks and Wildlife, who has spent several years working at a wildlife rehabilitation facility outside of Lyons, Colorado.
The need for a wildlife resource in the area is undeniable. The nearest option for small-medium mammals, songbirds, and waterfowl is currently 2 hours away in Pueblo, CO. For the animals, this makes for a dangerous situation. They are either left to suffer, euthanized without the option for rehabilitation, or illegally taken in by well-meaning rescuers who lack proper training and resources. Native Fauna aims to fill in the gap, offering proper care (or peaceful euthanasia when necessary) for local wildlife. We also aim to provide public education to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts and advise callers concerned about the wellbeing of a wild animal.
The first priority for Native Fauna is securing a location suitable to begin taking in and treating animals. An ideal situation would be a plot of land, not too near to a highway or business, where water and electricity are available, and outdoor caging may be constructed. Being a non-profit organization, any donation made would be tax-exempt.
(Full website coming soon)