by Jodi McLean

Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary

As promised, I finally visited the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary today, and it was a really enjoyable afternoon!  I can’t wait to go back with Amy and her kids.  I think they will love it.  (Once you get used to the non-captive birds who do fly-bys that are a little too close for comfort.)

They rehabilitate all kinds of Florida birds which have been injured or have been born in captivity and don’t know how to fend for themselves in the wild.  I saw different varieties of owls and birds of prey, in addition to the expected pelicans, gulls and herons.

I also saw piles of animal crates and boxes of detergent and bags and towels and donations from concerned Floridians, in preparation for the effects of the relentless oil spill.  I dropped off some supplies myself and intend to visit often and bring more donations.  If anyone would like to volunteer time with me, please comment below and we can set something up.  Know that I looked into active animal rescue, which requires haz mat training and rabies vaccination, if you are ready to be involved to that extent.   I am not.  There’s plenty more for us to do than wipe oil off frightened animals – I’m leaving that to the professionals.

Meanwhile, enjoy some pictures, and stop by the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary if you are in the Indian Shores area!

http://www.seabirdsanctuary.com/

My buddy - he followed me around

Babies! Egrets, I think.

Donations Coordinator!