PAWS Olympic Wildlife Center (OWC) has begun its first full season as a PAWS wildlife facility. A merger between Olympic Wildlife Refuge and PAWS last year brought the McCleary facility into the PAWS Wildlife Department.

Much of the past six months has seen volunteers and staff clearing land, cleaning the facilities, building caging, and preparing for the busy season. Recently a large building was installed on the site which, offering an exam room, an office, a bathroom, a nursery, a general animal care room, and surgery room and a reception area. The old animal care trailer has been converted into a general care trailer for animals that are more sensitive, like rabbits, easily-stressed birds, and young deer.

The new facility couldn’t have arrived a moment too soon. “We’re seeing baby squirrels and baby opossums already,” said OWC Rehabilitation Manager Jennifer Convy. She expects that the center will see more than a thousand animals this summer.

On hand to care for these animals is an extensive staff of experienced wildlife care workers. Working with Convy are Wildlife Care Supervisors Barb Conroy, Emily Meredith, Angelica Dimock, Volunteer Coordinator Sandy Kernast, Facility Caretaker Neil Deruyter, and seasonal Wildlife Care Assistants Tammi Cresto, Joy Hammock, and Brooke Bell. Veterinary coverage will be provided by PAWS Wildlife Veterinarians John R. Huckabee, dvm, and Darlene DeGhetto, dvm, along with Wildlife Veterinarian Intern Sophia Papageourgio, dvm.

“We still have a big need for volunteers,” said Convy, “We need wildlife care workers, baby bird nursery caretakers, and more.” Convy encourages people interested in volunteering to contact OWC Volunteer Coordinator Sandy Kernast at (360) 495-3337.

Convy is also hoping to recruit interns to work closely with the animals. “But unfortunately we have no housing for the interns,” says Convy. “We are in great need of a local RV dealer or public citizen to donate a fifth wheel trailer or camper for our use during the summer season.” Convy encourages people who are able to donate the use of a trailer to contact her directly at OWC (360) 495-3337.