THE MISSION OF THE PEACE RIVER WILDLIFE CENTER IS TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE SURVIVAL OF NATIVE FLORIDA WILDLIFE THROUGH RESCUE, REHABILITATION, AND EDUCATION
PRWC WILDLIFE HOSPITAL
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for injured or orphaned wildlife intake only.
223 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Punta Gorda, FL 33950
This facility is for wildlife animal medical care only and not open to the public for tours.
PRWC EDUCATION CENTER AND GIFT SHOP
Open daily to the public from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for visits and tours.
Only ADA service dogs allowed. No pets or emotional support animals.
3400 Ponce de Leon Parkway, Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Shop our online gift shop at Shop for a Cause!
WHAT’S NEW AT PRWC?
March Rescue And Rehab Stats
Admissions: 210
Releases: 22
Transfers: 10
Year-to-date admissions: 483
PICTURED: EASTERN GRAY SQUIRREL,
GREAT-HORNED OWLET, EASTERN COTTONTAILS
AND VIRGINIA OPOSSUM JOEY
March Babies
Pictured: Eastern gray squirrel, great-horned owlet, Eastern cottontails and Virginia opossum joey
It’s baby season, and our wildlife hospital is buzzing with excitement! In addition to our regular intake numbers, the hospital has transformed into a nursery, with fluffy little creatures and baby birds fluttering all around.
While our Virtual Baby Shower may have ended in March, there are still plenty of ways to support the wildlife babies in our care. By shopping from our Amazon wish list, you can provide the essential items we need to nurture and care for these messy, needy little ones. Every contribution brings us one step closer to getting them back where they belong—out in the wild!
Thank you for helping us give these special babies a second chance at life.
Happy Belated Birthday, Luna, On April 1 – No Fooling!
Luna the *Leucistic Eastern Screech Owl
The adorable little Luna when he first arrived at PRWC
Luna today!
*So … What Is Leucism? We’re So Glad You Asked!
Here’s a little insight to understanding leucism and how it’s different from albinism and melanism.
Leucism is a rare genetic condition that affects the coloration of animals, resulting in a pale or diluted appearance. Unlike albinism, where animals lack pigmentation entirely due to a genetic mutation that prevents the production of melanin (the pigment responsible for color), leucistic animals still produce some pigment but in much smaller amounts, leading to a lighter or patchy coloration.
While leucism results in lighter overall coloring, albinism causes a complete absence of pigment, often leaving animals with pink or red eyes due to the lack of melanin in the iris. In contrast, melanism is the opposite condition, where an animal produces an excess of melanin, leading to an overall darker or black coloration.
Understanding these differences helps us better appreciate the unique variations in the animal kingdom!
A Young Heart With A Big Impact: Greyson’s Generosity Supports PRWC Wildlife
Four-year-old Greyson, a regular visitor to PRWC, recently learned about the damage our center sustained during the hurricane. With a heart full of compassion, Greyson decided he wanted to help. Teaming up with his mom, he created a heartfelt video encouraging his friends and family to support PRWC’s efforts to care for wildlife in need.
Through his efforts, Greyson raised an impressive $500 to aid the animals at PRWC. His thoughtful act of kindness is a beautiful reminder that even the smallest among us can make a significant difference.
Greyson’s favorite PRWC resident is Luna. Much like Luna, Greyson may be small in size, but his generosity is making a HUGE impact on the animals he cares for. Thank you, Greyson, for showing us all the power of a kind heart!
Help Build A Brighter Future For Wildlife At PRWC
You can play a vital role in creating a new home for the wildlife we care for. With a variety of opportunities—from habitat and building naming rights to personalized brick pavers—there are many meaningful ways to contribute to the future of PRWC and the animals we serve.
Your support will help us continue our mission and leave a legacy for wildlife conservation.
SAD GOODBYE TO OUR JILLY BEANS
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of our beloved education ambassador, Jilly Beans, the Virginia opossum. Unfortunately, Jilly’s health had begun to decline due to an inoperable abdominal mass, coupled with the effects of aging.
Jilly joined us as a surrendered pet in 2022, and since then, she has touched countless lives by helping change perceptions about misunderstood wildlife. Her gentle nature was a constant source of joy and light at PRWC. We were truly privileged to care for her, and she will be deeply missed by all who loved and knew her.
SEARCH FOR OUR PRWILDLIFE APP
We’re excited to introduce the new mobile-friendly versions of our website, designed to make discovering information and navigating with ease simpler than ever. Whether you’re exploring, accessing key details, shopping our store, or donating, our streamlined mobile experience ensures everything is just a tap away, supporting our mission has never been more convenient. Visit us today and see how effortless it is to stay connected!
Visit our Apple Store or Google Play store apps.
Peace River Wildlife Center | 3400 Ponce de Leon Parkway | Punta Gorda, FL 33950
(941) 637-3830 // [email protected]
