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Raven Ridge Wildlife Center

@raven.ridge.wildlife

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We are a wildlife rehabilitation center located in Lancaster County, PA. Donate via Venmo @ravenridgewildlifecenter 𝘞𝘌 𝘚𝘈𝘝𝘌 𝘞𝘐𝘓𝘋 𝘓𝘐𝘝𝘌𝘚!

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by @raven.ridge.wildlife

Happy Halloween from Barron Von Vulture and everyone at Raven Ridge Wildlife Center! We hope you enjoy your favorite treats and have a fun, trick-free day!
#ravenridgewildlifecenter #ravenridge #RRWC #happyhalloween #lancasterpa by @raven.ridge.wildlife

We received a call from a very upset woman who found an adult vole that had died in her garden, with three babies next to her. We understand that voles aren’t everyone’s favorite since they can cause damage. Still, our team treats all native wildlife with respect because every animal has a role in the ecosystem and deserves a chance. When we took in the three baby voles, they are extremely small and very dehydrated. Babies this tiny need a lot of care, including subcutaneous fluids several times a day and feeding every two hours. They also have to be helped to urinate and defecate because they’re too little to do it themselves. Even with our best efforts, we lost the smallest and weakest baby. What makes our center special is our focus on quality care and putting the animals’ needs first. We make sure every animal we take in gets the right care and rehabilitation. It might seem like just a few voles, but our skills, training, and years of experience make a real difference for our wildlife in need.

Did you know that many vole species love water? The European water vole can swim up to 50 feet underwater. Some North American species, like the red tree vole, live and climb high in forest trees. Voles are part of the Cricetidae family, so they’re close relatives of hamsters, and they build shallow surface runways instead of deep mole tunnels. Voles also show surprising social care. If one is hurt or stressed, nearby voles notice and groom the injured animal more often to comfort it. Voles are important in the food chain. Like mice and other small mammals, they are prey for many animals higher up the food chain. Carnivores such as badgers, coyotes, foxes, and weasels hunt voles, and raptors like hawks and owls also prey on them and other small rodents. Even though voles have a reputation as pests, they play an important role in the ecosystem. Their burrowing loosens and aerates the soil, so their impact isn’t all negative. #ravenridgewildifecenter #ravenridge #RRWC #voles #panativewildife by @raven.ridge.wildlife

***UPDATE*** about the Canada Goose that was spotted walking through downtown York, seemingly unfazed by the people and cars around it. Observers noticed that something was wrong, as Canada Geese do not typically walk on sidewalks in busy city areas. As the finders got a closer look, they saw blood all over the goose's head, neck, and chest, as well as a metal ring lodged in its mouth.

After viewing the video and hearing the finders observations, we recognized that this goose needed immediate assistance. The goose was relatively easy to capture, as it appeared dazed and clearly injured. We are particularly grateful to Misty and her husband for quickly transporting the goose to our facility.

*Continued on next slide*

Photos by @echoes.of.indigo

Upon examination, we found that a rusty metal ring was stuck around the bottom part of its bill. This ring had been lodged there for an extended period, resulting in worn wounds and cut skin around its mouth, which caused significant bleeding and discomfort. The goose was thin and severely dehydrated due to its inability to eat or drink while the ring was stuck in its mouth.

The ring was removed, but the goose was so weak that it seemed to have lost all will to fight. We cleaned the caked-on blood from its body and checked for any other injuries. After being bathed in warm water, the goose began to respond positively, drinking fresh water, floating, and even grooming its matted chest feathers. We are happy to share that the goose has made a full recovery, has been released. The goose was very photogenic and clearly felt better to be free again. #ravenridgewildlifecenter #ravenridge #RRWC #canadagoose #pawildlife by @raven.ridge.wildlife

We’ve just released another fox after months of treating it for mange. Each year, we see more foxes coming in with this condition. Our center is one of the few places licensed to care for foxes, and we’re proud of our high success rate in helping them recover and return to the wild.

When we admit a fox, raccoon, or coyote with mange, the rehabilitation process is long, and these animals often have other health problems that need a safe, monitored space to heal. We appreciate that many caring people want to help foxes they see suffering. However, we don’t recommend following advice found online, since these animals need more than just medication hidden in food. It’s important to know that in most places—including Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania—it’s illegal to give drugs or leave medicated food out for wild animals unless you have a veterinary or state-issued permit.

Drugs like Ivermectin can be dangerous if given in the wrong dose, and it’s impossible to know a wild fox’s exact weight to make sure it’s safe. Food with medication left outside can also be eaten by pets or other wildlife, which can lead to accidental poisoning or drug resistance. Also, not all fur loss is caused by mange. Hair loss might be due to ringworm, fleas, normal shedding, or injuries, and these problems won’t get better with mange medicine. Only a professional can diagnose mange with a skin test.

Mange itself usually isn’t what kills a fox. The real risks are infections, dehydration, cold, starvation, or hidden problems like rat poison, which need daily antibiotics and professional care. Setting up a feeding station to give medication can also bring many animals together, making it easier for mange and other diseases to spread. Always contact your local rehabilitation center that works with foxes for guidance on mangy foxes and safely getting them to the center for treatment. #ravenridgewildlifecenter #ravenridge #RRWC #foxwithmange #mange #panativewildlife #lancaterpa #LancasterCountyPA
Photos by @echoes.of.indigo by @raven.ridge.wildlife

Deer are becoming increasingly active this time of year and with daylight-saving time set to end on November 1, 2026, the Pennsylvania Game Commission is urging motorists to slow down and remain vigilant on the roads.

Autumn marks a surge in deer activity as the fall breeding season, known as the “rut,” approaches. During this period, many yearling bucks leave their birth areas in search of new territory, sometimes dozens of miles away. At the same time, adult bucks are actively roaming their home ranges in pursuit of doe, often chasing those they encounter.

The end of daylight-saving time means more vehicles will be on the road during dusk and dawn, which are the peak hours for deer movement.

Data from around the country has shown that Pennsylvania drivers face some of the highest risks of vehicle collisions with deer or other large animals. However, drivers can reduce their chances of collisions with deer by staying alert, obeying the state’s cell phone laws and understanding deer behavior. Paying close attention while driving on stretches marked with “Deer Crossing” signs can make a difference.

Deer often travel in groups and walk single file. So even if one deer successfully crosses the road in front of a driver, it doesn’t mean the threat is over. Another could be right behind it. #ravenridgewildlifecenter #ravenridge #RRWC #pagamecommission #slowdownfordeer #lancasterpa #lancastercountypa by @raven.ridge.wildlife

***UPDATE*** On the Bald Eagle that was brought into us by one of our PA Game Wardens.

The eagle was spotted in the finder's yard after they returned home, and they thought it was a black garbage bag. Upon closer inspection, they realized it moved and lifted its head. This was clearly not a garbage bag. They hesitated to capture the Eagle, and it was obvious the eagle could not stand, walk, or fly.

When the Eagle arrived at our center, she could not stand or move her legs as they just dangled. This is very common with spinal trauma, as she had no resistance and was unable to clench her feet closed or even try to lift her legs. Following our facility's protocol, we tested her for lead poisoning, and no surprise, we found that she was positive for lead at 10.8 µg/dL, despite showing no initial indications of lead poisoning. Many eagles suffer injuries from being struck by cars while feeding on roadkill along the road and highways. Trauma accounts for a significant share of these birds' fatal injuries. Lead in an Eagle's system can impair its ability to think, fly, hunt, and perform basic survival skills. In this case, the Eagle's hunger led her to feed on roadkill, which likely resulted in her being hit by a car.

She received chelation therapy for the lead poisoning and physical therapy to strengthen her legs and manage pain and swelling in her spine. She required hand-feeding and cleaning several times a day. This was a very challenging rehabilitation process, but our team is committed to her recovery. After several weeks of treatment, we are happy to share that the eagle is now standing and has been moved to an outdoor area with perches at different heights and textures, including an open area where she can start strengthening her leg muscles, practicing her balance, and eating on her own. She still has a long road ahead, as the next step will be flight training to rebuild and strengthen her entire body and prepare for release.

**photo from when patient came in**

We urge all hunters and anglers to make a crucial choice: opt for lead-free ammunition and lead-free fishing gear. This single decision at checkout can significantly improve the lives of count by @raven.ridge.wildlife

Giving our less-appreciated wildlife a break. Courtney from the Wolf Sanctuary of PA called us after she spotted a vulture lying in the road outside of @pa_wolf. She carefully wrapped the vulture, which was unresponsive but still alive, in a towel and placed it in a crate. Beth another team member of Wolf Sanctuary immediately transported the vulture to our facility.
The vulture had clearly been hit by a car and needed urgent medical care. Beth brought the vulture to our center right away. When it arrived, the vulture was in very bad shape and nonresponsive, but after a full exam, we found no broken bones or wing injuries. It was in shock, unable to stand, lift its head, or open its eyes.
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(Photos by @echoes.of.indigo)

Our team set up a soft bed and began pain management and close monitoring for the first 72 hours, which are crucial for spotting any changes or hidden injuries. We worried about possible internal injuries, but we always want to give every animal a chance.
Thanks to our team's dedication, after 24 hours, the vulture was standing and acting more like itself. It could eat on its own and showed no signs of internal injuries. We were amazed by how much the vulture improved, especially since we thought its chances were slim after being hit and left in the road. Because Beth noticed the vulture and acted quickly, we were able to give this vulture a second chance.

Vultures are nature’s cleanup crew, helping public health by eating roadkill and destroying harmful bacteria and pathogens with their strong stomach acid. But eating on roadways puts them at high risk of being hit by cars. Vultures can’t take off straight up; they need a running start, strong wing-flapping, or warm air currents to get off the ground. After eating, they are even heavier and slower, which makes it harder for them to take off quickly. If a vulture tries to escape from an oncoming car, it may fly low and end up in the path of the vehicle’s windshield or grille.

How can you help vultures stay safe?
Slow down early: As soon as you spot them, tap your brakes to reduce speed and give them a few extra seconds to clear the area.
Expect a slow exit: Do no by @raven.ridge.wildlife

***UPDATE*** about the hummingbird that was admitted after being found on the finder’s deck, having flown into their window. Many people are familiar with feeding hummingbirds sugar water, and that was the case here. When the finder tried to feed the hummingbird sugar water, the mixture covered the bird’s feathers, leaving it unable to fly, thermoregulate, or move properly, which made it difficult for the hummingbird to eat. We are happy to share that after carefully cleaning and providing an environment where she could groom naturally, we restored her feathers to pristine condition. She is flying beautifully, and her feathers are in great condition, but unfortunately she missed the migration window. We will care for her for the rest of the year and through the winter until we can release her in the spring.

Did you know that there are over 360 species of the smallest birds in the world, hummingbirds. So every year, they discover new species of these amazing birds.

Don’t be fooled by their small sizes; hummingbirds are feisty and excellent flyers. They’re among the most skilled birds at flying, being the only species on earth than can fly backwards. Hummingbirds can also flap their wings very fast. Depending on the species, they can flap their wings up to 80 beats per second.

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the most common in the US. It’s also the only hummingbird that breeds in the eastern United States. It comes to the US and Canada only during its summer breeding season. After that, it leaves its wintering home in the south and arrives in the eastern US around March. Pennsylvania is one of the lucky states to have this hummingbird as its summer resident. It arrives in the southern parts of the state in late April. In northern parts of the state, you can expect it to arrive in early May. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are beautiful small birds. It’s easy to identify them with their beautifully colored plumage.

Their upper bodies and crown are emerald or golden-green, while their underparts are grayish. Males and females generally look the same except for one difference. Males have ruby-red throats that females lack, hence the name. They’re cute and all, by @raven.ridge.wildlife

*** UPDATE*** In April, Rita, our capture and transport volunteer, called about an owlet found on the ground in very poor condition. The finder, Gabe, who is the groundskeeper at Resurrection Cemetery, was concerned about the owl. While it is normal for fledgling owls to be on the ground, he noticed something was wrong with its head.

When Rita arrived to retrieve the owlet, she was horrified to see how weak it was, with flies continuously swarming around its head. The smell was quite pungent, and it was clear this owl had likely been grounded for several days. Rita sent pictures to us to prepare for the condition of the owlet, indicating that it might be too far gone to save. Our team was horrified by the photos, but we knew we wouldn't understand the full extent of the situation until the exam.

When the owl finally arrived, the flies buzzing around its head agitated the owl, and the odor was far from pleasant. The owl had both ears packed with maggots, which had caused them to swell and become crusty with excrement. Additionally, a large puncture wound on the owl's head was also infected with maggots. This owlet was very thin, dehydrated, weak, and cold – definitely in poor condition.

Our team immediately got to work on the owlet, applying warm compresses to its ears, removing maggots, flushing the wounds, and starting pain management, antibiotics, and fluids. We weren't sure the owlet would survive the night, so we placed it in a warm incubator and hoped for the best.

Within 48 hours of treatment, the transformation was astounding. The owlet's wounds began to heal, it started eating several mice on its own, and the swelling had subsided. The owlet gained its strength and displaying typical owl defense behaviors, including clicking and hissing.

We are incredibly thankful to everyone who helped rescue this owl; it is now strong and has proven that hunting was not an issue. As soon as it perched in a tree, it promptly flew down and caught dinner. This just reassured us without a doubt that the Great Horned owl will be just fine. #ravenridgewildlifecenter #ravenridge #RRWC #raptorrehabilitation #greathornedowls by @raven.ridge.wildlife

We are so grateful for the support we receive from our community. It truly makes our work at Raven Ridge possible. There are many ways to help our center beyond hands-on volunteering, such as cleaning cages or preparing diets. We want to give a special thank you to Able-Services, a day program that supports adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our area. Their participants recently made knitted bird nests as a fun and meaningful project, creating these nests just for our patients and donating them to us.
We also want to thank Ethan, Teresa, and Chelsey for all the time and care they put into making these wonderful nests and bringing them to our center. Each crafter received a Wildlife Hero certificate to show how much we appreciate their kindness and hard work. Our patients will love curling up in these little nests for comfort and security. #ravenridgewildlifecenter #ravenridge #RRWC #ABLESERVICES #wildifenests by @raven.ridge.wildlife

***UPDATE*** After over two months of rehabilitation this Red-Shoulder hawk finally gained his freedom once again. This was a challenging case that nearly cost a nestling his life. We received a call from Susan, who spotted a Red-shouldered nestling on the ground. The bird had a dark wound on his neck, and the presence of numerous flies indicated that he was in distress and needed immediate assistance. Susan was more than willing to make the hour-long drive to our facility to ensure the hawk received treatment, hoping our team could determine what had happened.

Upon intake, the hawk appeared lively but was severely underweight, and the smell of infection was overpowering. After the rehabilitator safely contained the hawk, we discovered that the dark mark on its neck was actually dead skin. Once the dead skin was removed, we realized the hawk had a torn crop, and the wound contained maggots and was severely infected. A hawk's crop is a stretchy pouch in the esophagus located near the base of the neck, where it stores extra food for later consumption. This condition is a severe emergency because the hawk cannot eat; food would fall out of the opening in his neck.

The skin around the neck is thin and delicate, making surgical repair challenging. The hawk underwent successful surgery and needed a special carnivorous slurry to aid digestion while his neck healed. Unfortunately, within twenty-four hours post-surgery, the bird became septic and showed signs of distress, leading us to fear that it might be too late to save him.

The next 72 hours were critical, as our team continually monitored him in an incubator, administering fluids and powerful antibiotics to combat the infection that was overwhelming his body and causing breathing problems. Thanks to our team's persistence, this hawk made an incredible turnaround. After a little over a week and a half, he was feeling better, starting to eat cut-up pieces of food on his own, and gaining weight. We are uncertain whether a sibling caused the torn crop or whether it happened during fighting in the nest, as this hawk is too small to have left the nest on his own. Our team's work and dedication to the challenges we by @raven.ridge.wildlife