Diana Pita

Wildcat Creek Wildlife Center
   
  "It felt satisfying knowing that we were making a difference in the animal’s lives by giving back, since the majority of the patients taken in were as a direct result of improper human intervention"  
     
As an intern at the Wildcat Creek Wildlife Center, I was responsible for maintaining the safety and well-being of all the animals admitted. Because the rehabilitation center caters to all types of injured and orphaned wildlife native to Indiana, I was fortunate enough to work with a variety of species, most of which required specialized methods of care. In addition, a large part of the center’s mission is education and often, we would work with the community to advocate preventative strategies to reduce the incidence of wildlife-related conflicts and emergencies. Some of the daily tasks included monitoring the progress of patients, administering medications, formulating and preparing specialized diets, cleaning enclosures, answering phone calls and offering advice pertaining to wildlife, admitting and assessing new patients, teaching, responding to emergency situations, as well as communicating and working closely and effectively with other interns and volunteers.
   
Working with such a broad variety of wild animals has taught me that one can never be too careful. The proper precautions must always be taken to ensure that there are no hidden escape routes or possible health hazards to the animal or yourself. Also, working through “baby season” has taught me to manage time effectively and utilize the assistance of others in order to accomplish bottle-feeding regimens and other daily tasks within a specific time limit. However, even though the feedings are run on a tight schedule, it is important to observe and make note of any changes, no matter how minute they may seem. Especially with babies, any sudden change in behavior is critical to their survival and when this occurs, one must act immediately.
     

I really enjoyed watching the progress of the patients and knowing that our hard work was improving their health. Most of all, it felt satisfying knowing that we were making a difference in the animal’s lives by giving back, since the majority of the patients taken in were as a direct result of improper human intervention. Also, I really valued the direct hands-on experience working with all forms of wildlife including white-tailed deer, opossums, raccoons, raptors, songbirds, and a variety of other mammals and reptiles. Many of the animals I had never seen in person and, having the opportunity to work with them up close gave me a new sense of admiration and respect for them.
     
I was referred to this internship by an advisor at the Center for Career Opportunities. After looking at my resume, she suggested that I contact the director for volunteering/internship opportunities based on my career goals.
     
If interested in interning or volunteering, further information regarding the Wildcat Creek Wildlife Center can be found on this website: http://www.wildcatwildlifecenter.org/index.html