CROW’s reputation as a teaching hospital has attracted students from a vast number of veterinary schools in the country, as well as internationally. Students work long hours and are very dedicated to learning how to care for the native and migratory species that CROW sees as patients.
In 2018, CROW accepted 35 Extern students (three to 12 weeks), eight Fellows (intensive six months), three DVM Interns (one for the full year and two for half the year) and two Wildlife Care and Education Interns. Together, these students dedicated over 25,000 hours of animal care. Last year, six foreign countries were represented including Ecuador, France, Canada, Czech Republic, Mexico, and West Indies.
Each year, CROW’s patient load continues to increase. In 2018, there were 4,760 patients admitted which represented 201 different species of native and migratory wildlife. The first 24 hours after admission are the most critical. For all patients admitted to CROW in 2018, the survival rate was 36 percent, but the rate greatly increased for those patients who survive the first 24 hours.
Thanks to the amazing help from veterinary clinics located throughout the county that serve as drop-off locations, our dedicated VERTs (Volunteer Emergency Rescue & Transport), and wildlife lovers who rescue injured, sick, or orphaned animals, CROW is able to accept wildlife patients from throughout Lee County and beyond.
Unknown Trauma | 699 |
Fell from nest | 578 |
Brevetoxicosis (Red Tide) | 574 |
Abducted/habitat destruction | 471 |
Hit by car/window strike | 468 |
Unknown | 461 |
Orphaned | 440 |
Exotic/Invasive Species | 407 |
Cat/Dog attack | 333 |
Systemic/infectious disease | 166 |
Misc. natural events | 119 |
Misc. caused by humans | 106 |
Predator Attack | 102 |
Fishing hook/line | 101 |
Human attack/gunshot | 22 |
Boat Strike | 12 |
Electrocution | 11 |
Parasiticide/Rodenticide Toxicosis | 8 |
Distemper | 5 |
Visit our Social Media Pages to view some of our patients and learn their story.
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