Welcome
The Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society (CWRS) is dedicated to treating injured and orphaned wildlife, providing valuable outreach and education services to the community and engaging all volunteers in motivational work and skill building experience.
Wildlife News
Exciting news!
A brand new CWRS website is underway. We are working toward building a better website with more information and resources that will better equip the community to help wildlife in distress. Stay tuned for the launch of our new online home early this year.
In the meantime, our current website will remain online and accessible.
Quick Updates
December 2011
We are happy to report that 150 ducks and geese were successfully raised by our foster moms and released back into the wild.
September 11, 2011
The CWRS released 3 Great Horned Owls, 4 Swainson’s Hawks and 2 Cedar waxwings.
September 8, 2011
The CWRS rehabilitated 48 Ducks, consisting of several different species including Mallards, Shovellers, Widgeons, Red Heads and Gadwalls. They were successfully released and sent off to begin their new life in the wild. This brings the total Duck releases for this year over 150.
Join our online communities:
This holiday season, shop for a cause. Support the CWRS by participating in the Wreaths for Wildlife raffle or by purchasing from our craft collection. We have tons of items to choose from: cards, magnets, stuffed toys, cookie jars. Your money will be well spent as it will go toward the care of our wild friends. Happy holidays to all!
WREATHS FOR WILDLIFE
Win one of these 8 beautiful, uniquely designed holiday wreaths!
For just $2, you can enter our Wreaths for Wildlife raffle and have a chance to win 1 of 8 custom designed wreaths! Stunning and unique, these wreaths are hand crafted... and creatively themed, but more importantly, with the purchase of a raffle ticket, you will be helping us to purchase vital medical supplies needed to deliver life-saving care to the many injured and orphaned wildlife we will admit this cold winter.
The wreaths are also on display now thru December 15 at the following locations:
Country Hills Veterinary Clinic
Edgemont Retirement Residence
Royal Oak Veterinary Clinic
Varsity Veterinary Clinic
How do I Buy Tickets? Individual $2 tickets and $20 booklets of 10 are available for pick up in person at the Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society Office or from one of the amazing supporting Community Partners listed above or by visiting the CWRS booth at the Edgemont Community Craft Fair November 19th and at Cardel Place on December 10th where we will be selling other holiday gift items which can be viewed on our website.
Raffle draw date is December 16th, 2011
Get a chance to win one of these 8 holiday wreaths!
Click on the photos for a larger image.
WIN THIS SPECIAL WILDLIFE WREATH!
Pre-purchase booklets of 10 tickets and sell them to your friends, family, co-workers and neighbors!
For every booklet of 10 pre-purchased, your name will be entered into a very special draw for a one-of-a- kind CWRS Wildlife Wreath! The wreath was created in the spirit of the many animals that have touched the lives of so many at the centre over the years.
CRAFTS, COOKIES & CANDY FOR CRITTERS
Looking for meaningful presents? Check out our collection. All proceeds will benefit CWRS.
Click on the photos for a larger image.
CARDS
Share these beautiful images of local wildlife with your friends and family the world over.
MAGNETS
Wildlife enthusiasts will love these practical magnets with beautiful photos of raptors, small mammals and birds.
STUFFED TOYS WITH TREATS
They're soft, cuddly and sweet! What's not to love? These adorable little santas are great stocking stuffers.
COOKIE JARS
A reason to satisfy your sweet tooth -- it's for a good cause!
BUY THESE ITEMS AND SUPPORT CWRS!
Visit us at one of the following venues:
- Edgemont Community Centre Craft Sale - November 19 (Saturday)
10am - 3pm
33 Edgevalley Cir NW
- Cardel Place Craft Sale - December 10 (Saturday)
11950 Country Village Link NE
You may also phone 403-266-2282 to place an order. Order now while supplies last!
All proceeds will benefit CWRS. Your support will provide medical supplies and food for the wildlife in our care.
Thank you for your support. Happy holidays from the CWRS!
Helping CWRS: Helping | Monetary Donation | Donation in Kind | Volunteer Information | Application Form | Orientation Sessions | CWRS Merchandise (coming soon)
The Wildlife Wishlist
You can also help out by donating items in kind. The CWRS is constantly in need of the following items:
- 9 Volt Batteries (not rechargeable)
- Band-Aids (for the first aid kit)
- Birdseed (Black Oil Sunflower, Pigeon Mix, and Wild Bird)
- Blue Berries
- Brooms
- Building Materials (lumber, puck board)
- Canadian Tire Money
- Clear Plastic & Heavy Duty Garbage Bags (for recycling)
- Computer Paper
- Dish Washing Soap
- Gift Cards to the following stores;
- Canadian Tire, Home Depot, Rona, Staples, SuperStore, WalMart
- Laundry Powder
- Postage Stamps
- Rubber Gloves
- Toilet Paper & Paper Towels
- Trout & Smelts (Frozen)
- Vegetables & Leaf Lettuces
- Welding Gloves
Please contact the CWRS office at (403) 266-2282 if wish to donate any of above items.
Thank you for helping the CWRS save wildlife.
Helping CWRS: Helping | Monetary Donation | Donation in Kind | Volunteer Information | Application Form | Orientation Sessions | CWRS Merchandise

- Pick up and rescue procedures for volunteer drivers
- Making a rescue checklist / kit
- Daily duties and food preparation on site
- Feeding protocols
- Capture and release of raptors (discussion and demonstration)
- Basic handling and restraint and safety procedures
- Assisting in physical examinations
- Tube feeding
PLEASE NOTE: A durable pair of leather gloves (UFA or Marks Work Wearhouse) is essential for the level two orientation.
Orientation is open to CWRS volunteers only. There is no charge, provided membership is in good standing.
Site tour dates are scheduled according to the number of interested volunteers and are usually held a minimum of once a month.
Volunteers will be notified of orientation and tour dates via email. Please watch out for announcements on upcoming orientation dates.
About CWRS: Who we are | Our Mission | History of CWRS | Our Services | Our Staff | Permanent Residents | Message from Board of Directors
Rescue. Rehabilitate. Educate.
Rescue
Our passionate and trained volunteers respond to wildlife rescue calls throughout Calgary.
The CWRS works closely with Alberta's Fish and Wildlife Department in responding to wildlife rescue calls that involve large mammals in the city.
The CWRS also works with many veterinary clinics in Calgary, which accept wildlife from the general public on our behalf. These clinics donate their time to providing initial treatment before the animals are transferred to the CWRS facility.
Rehabilitate
Our professional staff are assisted by highly trained volunteers with medical treatments and post-operative care.
Wild animals at the CWRS facilities are provided with food, shelter, medical attention and rehabilitation training, as well as care and support from dedicated staff and volunteers. Upon full recovery,animals are released back into the wild whenever possible.
Educate
The CWRS has an exceptional education program offered to schools, community groups and interested organizations throughout the Calgary area. The CWRS also participates in and conducts studies on the types of wildlife received and related research.
Request a presentation
A volunteer partnered with one of our permanent resident owls or hawks (when available) will be delighted to help your group learn more about wildlife and the CWRS.
If you are interested in having a volunteer from Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society present to your group, contact 403-239-2488 or calgaryw@telus.net to inquire.
Helping CWRS: Helping | Monetary Donation | Donation in Kind | Volunteer Information | Application Form | Orientation Sessions | CWRS Merchandise

Please submit the completed form with your payment to:
Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society
11555-85th Street NW
Calgary, AB T3R 1J3
Please make cheques payable to "Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society"
Thank you for your support and generosity.
Helping CWRS: Helping | Monetary Donation | Donation in Kind | Volunteer Information | Application Form | Orientation Sessions | CWRS Merchandise
The Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society (CWRS) is a not-for-profit organization that relies on the financial support of caring individuals and businesses to operate. The CWRS is not a government program and does not receive ongoing government financial support. The cost of providing necessary surgery and rehabilitation for injured wildlife is paid for by your generous, tax-deductible donations. (CHARITABLE REGISTRATION # 891088189RR0001)
Every donation received by the CWRS is put to good use in one of the following areas:
Food and Shelter
When an animal is turned into the shelter because it has been injured or orphaned, it requires food and care. CWRS delivers professional, round the clock care for animals in need.
![]()
Medical Attention
An injured animal may require surgery, medication and dressings for its wounds. Medical supplies are an ongoing need.
Community Outreach
Each year, calls to the CWRS continue to increase from concerned citizens who have encountered wildlife in distress, but didn't know what to do to help. Providing ongoing education for the public is a necessary service.
How to donate
You will receive an income tax receipt for donations over $10.00. You will also be given a society membership, receive our informative newsletter and be invited to our events.
Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society
11555-85th Street NW
Calgary, AB T3R 1J3
Your support is greatly needed and appreciated.
Helping CWRS: Helping | Monetary Donation | Donation in Kind | Volunteer Information | Application Form | Orientation Sessions | CWRS Merchandise
Volunteer with the CWRS Volunteers of the Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society provide a critical role to its success and are valued members of the team. The CWRS is always in need of volunteers who are willing to help out in a variety of ways.
Volunteer Opportunities Wildlife rescue Animal Care Education Construction/Site chores Office/Computer Assistance Fundraising and Grant Writers Special Events Become a Board Member We welcome people who share our passion for helping injured and orphaned wild animals survive. All volunteers are expected to adhere to policies, procedures, and regulations of the CWRS. Certain conditions apply.
How to become a volunteer To become a volunteer, please fill in the online volunteer application form. Once your application is received and reviewed, you will be contacted and invited to a site tour to discuss available volunteer opportunities. Site tours are generally conducted once a month. NOTE: The CWRS facilities are generally not open to the public. | ||||||||||
Volunteer with the CWRS today. | ||||||||||
About CWRS: Who we are | Our Mission | Our History | Our Services | Our Board and Staff | Permanent Residents | Message from Board of Directors
The Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society (CWRS) was founded in February 1993 to address the growing need for a wildlife rehabilitation facility in Calgary.
At the time, the Calgary Zoo was accepting and treating wildlife brought in by the general public. When the number of wildlife in need of medical attention began increasing significantly every year, the need for a wildlife rehabilitation facility became apparent.

Several local veterinary clinics were interested in donating time to treating wildlife, but a long-term recovery facility was still required.
In 1994, Texaco Canada Petroleum Inc. became the founding sponsor of the CWRS, donating vital start-up funding and expertise. The University of Calgary donated a portion of a veterinary facility to the CWRS.
In the same year, Alberta Justice Department agreed to allow minimum-security inmates to volunteer under the supervision on Wildlife Care Technicians.The program was based on successful programs operating in the United States where officials state that none of their participating inmates have re-offended. During the life of the program, interested correctional officers from as far away as Japan and Australia toured the facility.
In 2000, Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Calgary donated a volunteer house.
In 2001, the highly successful inmate volunteer program ended with the closure of the Bow River Correctional Institution. Also in 2001, Alberta Infrastructure granted an extension of the land lease to include 12 acres of property. The CWRS has been working on facility expansions since that time.
At present, the CWRS is working to expand its facilities in order to accommodate more wildlife and enhance its efforts to rescue and rehabilitate them.
The CWRS is the result of many organizations and individuals working together to achieve common goals.
Thank you to everyone who has volunteered or contributed to the CWRS over the years.
About CWRS: Who we are | Our Mission | History of CWRS | Our Services | Our Board and Staff | Permanent Residents | Message from Board of Directors
The board of directors and staff of the Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society (CWRS) ensure the smooth and continuous operation of the wildlife facility.
We thank each of the following people for their efforts and commitment in helping the CWRS help our feathered and furred friends.
Board of Directors
Doug Webb - President
Mathew Cheadle - Vice President
Dave Velletta - Treasurer
Karen Sandeman - Secretary
Dave Sandeman - Director
Nicole Sylvestre - Director
Staff Members
Nicola Murphy, rAHT - Site & Wildlife Manager
Caroline Brookfield, DVM - Staff Veterinarian
Mary Arseneau - Business Administrator
Wildlife Technicians - Casual Staff
Volunteer Veterinarians - Dr. Catherine Miller, Dr. Martha Toy, Dr. Sandie Black, Dr. Doug Whiteside
About CWRS: Who we are | Our Mission | History of CWRS | Our Services | Our Staff | Permanent Residents | Message from Board of Director
The
We are the ONLY veterinarian based wildlife hospital within the City of Calgary.
Our professional veterinary staff provide medical and rehabilitative care for all injured and orphaned wildlife that are brought into the hospital.
CHARITABLE REGISTRATION # 89108 8189 RR0001

We give injured or orphaned wild animals a second shot at life.
We have all had the distressing experience of encountering injured or orphaned wildlife, at the roadside, in our parks, or even in our own backyard.
The Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society (CWRS) was established in 1993 to provide professional care and facilities for wildlife rehabilitation.
The CWRS is dedicated to treating injured and orphaned wildlife, providing valuable outreach and education services to the community, and engaging all volunteers in motivational work and skill building experience.
Our task must be to free ourselves... by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature and its beauty. ~ Albert Einstein
About CWRS: Who we are | Our Mission | History of CWRS | Our Services | Our Board and Staff | Permanent Residents | Message from Board of Directors
The Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society (CWRS) is dedicated to treating injured and orphaned wildlife, providing valuable outreach and education services to the community and engaging all volunteers in motivational work and skill building experience.

Our Mandates:
Treat injured and orphaned wildlife for return to their natural habitat.
Enable volunteers to contribute a community service while acquiring new skills.
Provide public education through school visits, presentations, displays, lectures.
Conduct studies into the causes of increasing incidents of wildlife injuries, and the effectiveness of other CWRS programs.
Increase public awareness and positive public relations for the participants and supporters of this win-win facility.
About CWRS: About CWRS | Our Mission | History of CWRS | Services Offered | Our Staff | Permanent Residents | Message from Board of Directors
The Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society (CWRS) strives to release all rehabilitated animals back into the wild. However, for various reasons some of the animals become permanent residents.
Listed below are our current residents with information as to why they are staying with us. Check in soon to learn about our permanent residents as they come in.
Oberon the Great Horned Owl
“Oberon” is a Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus) and the education ambassador for the Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society.
He was hit by a truck in the spring of 2003, causing one of his wings to be amputated. Because of this, he can never be released back into the wild.
He was brought to CWRS when he was very young, so he has grown accustomed to people around him, and remains calm and tame around them.
Oberon is, however, still a wild bird. The mission of the CWRS is to rehabilitate injured and orphaned wildlife so that, whenever possible, they may be released back into the wild – where they belong.
Oberon, along with his handler, visit over 75 schools a year teaching children of all ages the importance of our society and about the wildlife that surrounds them.
Wildlife Rescue Line
Phone (403) 239-2488.
Click here for a list of vet clinics accepting wildlife on behalf of the CWRS.
Mailing Address
Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society
11555-85th Street NW
Calgary, AB T3R 1J3
Administration
| Phone: (403) 266-2282 Fax: (403) 266-2449 E-mail: calgaryw@telus.net Website: www.calgarywildlife.org |
The society will be accepting new volunteers in anticipation of Spring! Please visit the helping section on this website and submit an online volunteer application if you are interested in helping out!
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNER OF THE CWRS BOOK RAFFLE FUNDRAISER!!
On Jan. 15, 2011, the winning ticket was drawn BLUE TICKET # 55. The winner receives an autographed copy of Cesar Millan's new book "Cesar' Rules"
The winner has been notified! Thanks to all who bought tickets in support of the Wildlife Centre, stay tuned for more exciting raffles to come!
SUPPORTED THE FUNDRAISER.....STAY TUNED FOR MORE FUN RAFFLES TO COME!
Get your tickets now for a chance to win a an autographed copy of Cesar Millan's new book "Ceasar's Rules".
Tickets are $2.00 each or 3 for $5.00. Tickets are available at the wildlife centre or at Royal Oak Veterinary Clinic. Draw date is January 15, 2011! Tickets will make a great stocking stuffer and 100% of the proceeds go to providing professional care for injured and orphaned wildlife!! For more information call Louise Winn at the centre (403)266-2282
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
PLEASE JOIN US ON SUNDAY OCTOBER 17, 2010 AT THE INGLEWOOD BIRD SANCTUARY FROM 12PM-3PM FOR THE CALGARY WILDLIFE REHABILITATION SOCIETY ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING.
LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED.
_______________________________________________________________________________
![]()
Support CWRS
We have a new line of embroidered hooded sweatshirts, zippered sweatshirts, fleece lined vests, golf shirts, fleece lined toques and ball caps. If you are interested in purchasing one, please contact the wildlife centre at (403)266-2282
All sizes available and pricing is very reasonable! Please visit our picture gallery for photos of the items available for sale.
UPDATE, THANK YOU TO BODHI TREE YOGA FOR THEIR GENEROSITY IN 2009! $5000.00 DONATED TO CWRS!
Bodhi Tree Yoga has chosen CWRS as their charity of choice in 2009! Join a Karma Yoga class on Wednesdays in 2009.
"Bodhi Tree Yoga" in Calgary has chosen the Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society as it's charity of choice for 2009. They offer a KARMA Yoga class on Wednesdays, with the proceeds raised during the class being donated to CWRS. We are grateful for their support! Please visit their website for more information and drop in for a class. You'll feel great, not only after the class, but also knowing that your helping to support all the critters we care for at the centre, www.bodhitreeyoga.ca
Wish list items needed!
Spring will be here before we know it, You can help the CWRS and the critters we care for by having a look at our wish list! Items that are always needed,... gift cards, puppy milk replacer (esibilac), bird seed, black oil sunflower seed, frozen veggies and frozen fruit, laundry detergent, bleach, paper towel.
THANK YOU TO WILD ROSE BREWERY FOR THEIR GENEROSITY!!
On behalf of everyone at CWRS, THANK YOU to Wild Rose Brewery for choosing the CWRS for it's charity of the month in April 2009. $300.00 was raised during the month!
We are receiving injured and orphaned animals daily, as this is our busiest time of the year. This donation will go to purchasing the food needed to raise these critters for eventual release! THANKS AGAIN!
SPONSOR A DUCKLING OR GOSLING AND HELP SAVE A LIFE!
Spring is here! Help the Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society, by sponsoring a duckling or gosling. Sponsorships are only $5.00 each.
100% of the proceeds will go towards the feeding, care and eventual release of hundreds of ducklings and goslings that will come into our care this spring.
Contact the centre for more information, call (403)266-2282 ask for Louise or Nicola, we will be happy to explain the sponsorship and take your order!
Visit Calgary's WILD ROSE BREWERY in the month of April, and help fundraise for our charity!
$0.25 from every Wildrose Brown Ale purchased in the Wild Rose Taproom, will be donated to CWRS! For more information, visit Wild Rose Brewery Website at http://www.wildrosebrewery.com/
This event runs for the month of April, show the Brewery we appreciate the support, drop by and have a pint, your support will help many of the critters we take care of!
Gift Giving made easy, CWRS has unique gift ideas for the "hard to buy person" in your family!
Give the gift of sponsorship, or a stunning songbird photograph, critter cosy's, nesting boxes, note cards, gift baskets/stockings of all sorts! Contact Louise at the centre (403)266-2282 ( items may be limited in availability)
CWRS BOOK RAFFLE FUNDRAISER!
AND THE WINNER IS......
Layout by Ricky Wilson | Serendipity Template by Carl Galloway | Login
About CWRS
The Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society (CWRS) is a non-profit charitable organization that rescues and rehabilitates wild animals in the Calgary, Alberta region
Read More