A Crawford County non-profit organization is making a serious impact in the lives of wildlife. 

This week, the Tamarack Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Saegertown, PA successfully released a female juvenile bald eagle who was in their care due to an injured wing.

2023 marks the 34th year that the Tamarack Wildlife Rehabilitation Center have been assisting injured wildlife throughout Northwest Pennsylvania.

As the sole licensed rehabilitation center for the region, they work tirelessly to help save the lives of wildlife in ten counties. 

“Most of our wildlife come to us because they are in trouble from some interaction that didn’t go so well having to deal with humans," said Carol Holmgren, Executive Director of Tamarack Wildlife Center. "Whether it's picking up a toxin that humans have introduced into the environment, or being caught by a cat or a dog, colliding with a window, or being hit by a car, most injuries happen due to human involvement.”

The released female juvenile eagle was one of seven bald eagles assisted by the center this year. Before returning to the wild, she underwent various tests and evaluations to ensure her readiness.

The release also served as an opportunity to raise awareness about the critical role humans play in wildlife incidents.

“I think the biggest thing we think about anymore is the lead toxicity," stated Suzanne DeArment, Founder of Wildlife in Need Emergency Response of Pennsylvania. "This is something that is caused by a predator animal eating an animal that has been shot with lead ammunition.”

The staff and volunteers at Tamarack Wildlife Rehabilitation Center stress that education is crucial for coexisting harmoniously with the wildlife in our region and offer multiple educational programs throughout the year.