Why do we need a wildlife hospital?

Conservation and education

Wales is a country of outstanding natural beauty, unique wildlife and precious ecosystems. Many of the species here are endangered and need to be protected. The hospital will serve as an invaluable source of information and research on the quest to preserve and protect the environment and its inhabitants.

Animal Welfare

At present there are no wildlife hospitals or rehabilitation centres in Wales. All injured, sick or orphaned animals end up at in private homes, local vets, underequipped small units or being transported great distances to England for care. The first few hours following rescue are the most critical in ensuring an individual survives and thrives, yet it is in these hours they will be left in a box, awaiting transport to a vet who will treat them, or being put to sleep.

Each individual deserves to be assessed promptly by a wildlife veterinarian and given pain relief and a treatment plan.

Some of you will remember the 1996 Sea Empress disaster, with estimates of over 25,000 bird deaths. A makeshift wildlife hospital was built in Milford Haven to try and assist with the rescue efforts. 7,000 oiled birds were treated, but sadly the recovery rate was incredibly low. We hope that we never see a disaster like this again, but it illustrated the local need for wildlife care and infrastructure.

What about badgers?

The european badger is a vital part of the ecosystem in Wales. They have been here for over 250,000 years and are one of the oldest suriving native species in the UK. Their link with bovine TB over the last 50 years has led to a vilification of the badger, and calls for large proportions of the population to be culled. The reality is that badgers are, and should be, here to stay, and are as much of a victim of bovine TB as cattle are.

We pledge to enforce strict isolation, testing and research into any badgers presented to the rescue, and will work alongside local farmers, farm vets and badger groups to help all stakeholders in this situation. Locating and mapping areas of concern will assist in the efforts to eradicate bovine TB, along with helping the badgers themselves.