Rebecca G.

I have always loved animals. A few years ago when I heard the position of NYS Wildlife Rehabilitator existed I knew it was something I was interested in. After I did more research I realized I didn't have all of the resourses (i.e. space, knowledge, resources, connections, etc.) that I would need to be successful. Fast forward to 1-2 years later, I found a blue heron in my backyard trapped in fishing line. I got on the DEC website and called a few rehabilitators in my area. Pam Mead (my current mentor) came and helped me rescue the heron and brought it to her facility to provide it with care. During our rescue efforts Pam and I got to talking and I told her that a few years prior I had considered taking the rehabilitators exam, but felt I wasn't prepared enough to provide excellent care. She informed me that coincidentally the exam was the following Friday and that if I took it and passed she would be happy to allow me to volunteer at her center. I passed the exam and began working with Pam the following week. Throughout the year I have volunteered with Pam I have met so many other rehabilititators and have gained the network and knowledge I need to be successful which has inevidably led me to begin caring for wildlife independently.