Author: dkong3

Blog Post #7 – Diane Kong

by dkong3

Reflecting on my experiences at Wild Nest Rehab as I near the end of my required hours with them, I have developed sympathy for these vulnerable creatures in our modern, industrial society. This journey has been full of unexpected discoveries, challenges, and moments of deeper understanding. Overall there is an issue about the lack of knowledge about avian species among the general population. Many of these incidents could have been prevented if people were more knowledgeable about bird behavior and nesting habits. It’s a reminder of the importance of education and awareness when it comes to coexisting with wildlife in our increasingly urbanized environments. For instance, one of the most surprising revelations has been the extent of bird injuries caused by collisions with windows and other structures—an issue often overlooked in the hectic schedule of everyday life. Another example of this was when an individual brought in baby house finches whose nests had been inadvertently removed by a pressure washer worker, leaving them orphaned. Although Wild Nest Rehab is about treating and rehabilitating injured birds; it’s also about preventing these incidents from happening in the first place through informed action and respect for wildlife. 

I highly encourage others to volunteer with this organization; the supportive atmosphere and meaningful contributions make it a truly fulfilling experience. Looking forward, I find myself considering further involvement with this cause. Throughout this experience, I have admired the organization’s dedication to caring for injured birds. I was able to have first-hand experience with avian care from thorough injury assessments to precise treatment administration.

Blog # 6 – Wild Nest Bird Rehab

by dkong3

Engaging in voluntary service at the Wildnest Rehabilitation Center has been both a privilege and an educational journey. My experiences there have provided unique insights into avian diversity, notably through encounters with drastically different bird species such as the American woodcock and waxwing. At first glance, the American Woodcock seems like an unusual bird, notably due to its prominent beak and ground-dwelling nature, often requiring a pile of leaves for comfortable rest. In stark contrast to the peculiar appearance of the American Woodcock, the waxwing emerged as the most striking bird I encountered at the rehabilitation center. Its silky-looking feathers, adorned with vibrant yellows and bright reds make it stand out from the other birds. 

The beginning of April marks baby bird season and has presented invaluable opportunities to actively participate in the care and rehabilitation of vulnerable avian populations. Engaging in tasks such as hand-feeding and nurturing these fledglings has given me a sense of stewardship and responsibility toward wildlife conservation. Conversely, challenges have also arisen, serving as a reminder of the threats faced by avian species in the wild. The majority of birds that have been admitted to the rehabilitation center have suffered injuries due to window or car collisions, resulting in neurological damage that impairs their ability to stand or fly properly, often with devastating consequences. Last week, I encountered a bird so severely injured that it could barely move, prompting the rehab team to make the difficult decision to euthanize it, recognizing that its chances of recovery and survival in the wild were slim. Witnessing such heartbreaking situations has been a sobering reminder of the fragility of wildlife and the importance of conservation efforts to mitigate human-induced threats to their well-being.

*The following image is found on Google Images and not taken at the rehab facility*

Cedar Waxwing | Audubon Connecticut

^ Waxwing 

American Woodcock - eBird

^ American Woodcock

Introduction: Diane Kong

by dkong3

Greetings everyone, I am Diane Kong, pursuing a Biology major with a premed concentration. My decision to enroll in this course stemmed from its focus on community service within the urban environment, which was something I had been interested in but never had the opportunity to delve into. This honors course promised a unique opportunity to explore the intersections of nature and community engagement. As I immerse myself in the material, I am uncovering the intricate nuances of nature that often go overlooked. From the interconnectedness of ecosystems to the delicate urban biodiversity, I am realizing the depth and complexity of the natural world.

I am thrilled to collaborate with Wild Nest Bird Rehab, a vital organization dedicated to bird welfare. I was interested in working with Wild Nest because of my deep love for birds, particularly hummingbirds, and the sadness I feel seeing them fall victim to human activities. Wild Nest’s commitment to treating 1,500 birds annually, educating the local community, and advocating for approaches to reduce bird deaths and injuries is truly inspiring. Through my engagement with Wild Nest, I’ve learned the staggering statistic that billions of birds perish each year due to habitat loss, free-roaming cats, building collisions, and other causes. I am eager to contribute to projects aimed at directly assisting birds, whether through treatment or feeding. Moreover, I hope to learn invaluable skills during my service assignments, such as bird weighing, medication administration, and tube feeding, all under the guidance of licensed professionals. I believe that by working with Wild Nest, I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of birds while growing personally and professionally.