THE MISSION OF PEACE RIVER WILDLIFE CENTER IS TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE SURVIVAL OF NATIVE FLORIDA WILDLIFE THROUGH RESCUE, REHABILITATION, AND EDUCATION.
Peace River Wildlife Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that receives no local, state, or federal funding. We depend on the generous support of our community and guests to meet this mission.
Peace River Wildlife Center provides the essential service of medical care and wildlife preservation across Charlotte County and Southwest Florida.
WHAT’S NEW AT PRWC?
MAY RESCUE AND REHAB STATS
Admissions: 302
Releases: 40
Transfers: 2
Year-to-date admissions: 1,147
THE SNOWBIRD WHO CAME TO STAY
Athena, a barn owl, was just 4 years old when she arrived at PRWC in December 2022, transferred from a licensed handler in New York.
Athena, who turned 7 on June 1, has become a beloved and permanent resident. In true barn owl fashion, she’s currently in the middle of her annual nesting season; so, this year, we sent our birthday wishes directly to her cozy nest box!
From her snowy start in the North to sunny days here in Florida, Athena has settled in beautifully. We’re honored to care for this elegant raptor and thrilled to celebrate another year with her.
Special thanks to Athena’s former handler for sharing her adorable baby photos with us.
FREEDOM RESTORED: BALD EAGLE RESCUED AND RELEASED
Last month, a powerful reminder of community compassion and the importance of wildlife stewardship unfolded. A majestic juvenile bald eagle found itself in a life-threatening situation after becoming entangled in discarded fishing line and unable to fly.
Thanks to the quick thinking and swift response of local law enforcement, the distressed eagle was safely recovered and brought to Peace River Wildlife Center for urgent care.
After several days of supportive care, hydration, and rest, the eagle showed remarkable resilience and made a full recovery. With strength regained and eyes fixed on the sky, the eagle was released back into the wild to soar free once again over the waters of Southwest Florida.
This successful rescue and release is a shining example of what we can accomplish together, when citizens and wildlife professionals unite to protect the creatures that share our environment.
Let it also serve as an important reminder: Discarded fishing line and other litter pose serious threats to wildlife. Please dispose of all gear responsibly and encourage others to do the same.
Together, we can keep our skies wild and our wildlife safe.
AFTERNOON PELICAN FEEDINGS RETURN!
They’re back! Starting June 1, our popular afternoon pelican feedings will take place daily at 3 p.m. at the PRWC Education Center (weather permitting.)
Join us for this fun and educational experience as you meet the charismatic pelicans that call Peace River Wildlife Center home. Discover their unique stories, feeding habits, and how they came to live at PRWC.
Location: PRWC Education Center
3400 Ponce de Leon Parkway, Punta Gorda, Fla.
There’s always something new to learn on the PRWC boardwalk. Come for the pelicans, stay for the wildlife wonders!
CAN YOU NAME THIS BIRD?
It’s time to put your bird identification skills to the test!
Take a close look at these striking feathers. Do they look familiar? This fearless feathered friend is a proud member of our outreach team and often steals the spotlight during public appearances.
Think you know who it is? Don’t scroll just yet. See if you can guess before checking the answer at the bottom of the page!
HELP BUILD THE FUTURE OF WILDLIFE CARE AT PRWC
Be part of something lasting. From naming opportunities for habitats and buildings, street signs and displays to custom brick pavers along our walkways, there are many meaningful ways to support the creation of our new home.
Your contribution directly supports our mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and educate—ensuring a brighter future for Florida’s native wildlife.
LEAVE A LEGACY. MAKE AN IMPACT. BUILD WITH US.
HAVE QUESTIONS OR WANT TO GET INVOLVED?
We welcome your interest! If you have any questions about any aspect of our project and the building process, we encourage you to contact us rather than relying on information put out by other sources.
We are happy to answer any question and address any concern. Contact Tricia LaPointe directly at [email protected]
SWFL VENDORS FOR A CAUSE
Plan for relief from the summer doldrums. Mark your calendar and
gather your friends for a fun evening supporting a worthy cause.
Contact Melissa Genovese at (201) 699-7674 to make your reservation today!
Wednesday, July 9
Paddle sales start at 5:30 p.m.
Auction starts at 7 p.m.
Location: Beef O’Bradys
1105 Taylor St., Punta Gorda, Fla.
ALL ABOARD FOR A GREAT CAUSE!
Get ready to set sail with purpose! The Charlotte Harbor Parrot Head Club invites you to join their first-ever Fundraising Cruise, taking place January 25 to February 1, 2026, aboard the stunning Celebrity Beyond.
This unforgettable seven-night adventure not only promises sun-soaked memories but also supports several amazing causes. Proceeds will benefit:
• Boys & Girls Clubs
• Peace River Wildlife Center
• St. Vincent de Paul Care Center
• Douglas T. Jacobson State Veterans Home
Ports Of Call Include:
• Miami, Fla.
• Nassau, Bahamas
• Tortola, B.V.I.
• St. John’s, Antigua
Whether you’re in it for the tropical vibes, good company, or a meaningful mission, this cruise offers it all.
Ready To Book Or Learn More?
Contact Jerry York.
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 opened 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.
ADA service dogs allowed only. No pets or emotional support animals.
3400 Ponce de Leon Parkway
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
GUESSING GAME REVEAL!
Did you guess KiKi? You nailed it!
That’s right – the mystery bird is none other than KiKi the American kestrel!
KiKi is one of PRWC’s star glove-trained ambassadors, always ready to charm visitors with her fierce personality and stunning looks. Stop by our education center at Ponce Park, and you just might spot her hanging out on the boardwalk with one of her handlers!
• RESCUE • REHABILITATE • EDUCATE •
(941) 637-3830
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