The avian botulism response on the Lower Klamth Refuge is at an end, thanks to the recent subfreezing overnight temperatures and rain in the region that eliminated the conditions in which the bacteria thrives.
233 aquatic birds were rescued, consisting primarily of freshwater ducks such as Mallards, Northern Shovelers, Northern Pintails and others, with 168 recovering and being released.
Support for the effort came from many sources, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, CAL- OR Waterfowl Association, long time BAX volunteers and donors, Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue, Wildlife Emergency Services, and staffing support from Humboldt Wildlife Care Center, the wildlife hospital operated by BAX as both an important part of wildlife care available in Northern California and a teaching facility introducing the next generation of wildlife care givers to our profession.
January Bill and Marie Travers, who co-led this response have done another fantastic job of providing quality care for the innocent victims of human meddling, such as the water wars of the west have caused with chronic misuse of this precious resource that we all need to survive.
Thank you to everyone who donated to support BAX in our mission, wherever it takes us, providing direct care for wildlife in need as well as education and support to both colleagues and communities, wherever it is needed.
Everyday we are here for our wildlife neighbors. Everyday we need your support. Thank you!!
