The Weirfield Wildlife Hospital - A Brief History

Weirfield Wildlife Hospital was created by Ally Townsend in 1989 when they started with just one aviary in her back garden. Now, with the help of many volunteers and local vets David and Susan Ashcroft, it has expanded to include several aviaries and pens.

They provide first aid, primary and secondary care followed by recuperation, rehabilitation and eventual release back into the wild. Most care is currently provided on a voluntary basis with the majority of funding being received from generous members of the public who care about wildlife and bodies such as the R.S.P.C.A. and John E.Haiths.

The Weirfield Wildlife Hospital.

Below is a selection of photos of around the Weirfield Wildlife Hospital's site: (please click on a picture for a larger version).

BELOW WE HAVE A BIRD'S EYE VIEW OF OUR SITE, CLICK FOR A BIGGER PICTURE.

OUR PROJECTS

OUR BIG BIRD BATH - @ 04.02.08 In front of our growing education centre, we have an area of land, which we wanted to turn into an exercise pool for the water birds.  Whilst continuing to work on the Eduction Unit, we had the tools and man-power to construct this ready for the spring arrivals.With this pool, it is deep enough for the birds to be able to swim, and even deep enough for the Swans to exercise.  Around the pool, the area will be hard standing to allow the birds to stand and preen themselves, keeping their feathers in good condition and waterproofed.This will assist in quicker recovery and help the birds to become stronger prior to their release.

OUR BIG BIRD BATH - @ 01.11.09 No fully functional!

EDUCATION SHED This is our new 'empty shell' education shed. This will be used to train and educate students and volunteers. We are currently looking at kitting this out with Books, a PC, desk, seats, TV/DVD player, Microscope, etc.

The Weirfield Wildlife Hospital - The staff

Most of the volunteers have full time jobs or are in full time education, but give their time freely to help wildlife. Ally is a Staff Nurse on the District. Ally's dad Mick, a joiner by trade and now retired helps with all construction works.

Weirfield volunteers are currently Chairman Jane Bauer, Committee Members include Eddie Taylor, Neil Stait, Les and Gina Stait, Rebecca Hammerton and Mick Armiger.

Each Saturday, a team of approximately 10 young volunteers help clean, feed and look after the animals. Their help and assistance is much appreciated and needed. Some of these progress to animal or Veterinary care courses after leaving school.

Their time with us provides valuable work experience and knowledge of wildlife rehabilitation.

The Weirfield Wildlife Hospital - Our patients

A large number of the animals and birds received are brought in by the R.S.P.C.A. from throughout Lincolnshire and the Midlands. They also provide financial assistance with costs such as food. Local vets David and Sue Ashcroft are invaluable to the Hospital. They are on call 24 hours a day giving support as required. Recently, courses have been held for local Police Officers and the British Veterinary Nurses Association regarding wildlife care. All of these factors bear testimony to the efficient and professional manor in which the Hospital is run.