Parks & Recreation News
Thursday, September 6, 2007NATURE CENTER TAKES IN ANIMALS WHILE THEY ARE NURSED BACK TO HEALTH
LAWRENCE -Over 200 animals and amphibians were welcomed at Prairie Park Nature Center last night. The animals were taken by the State of Kansas Animal Health Department from a western Kansas pet store and brought to Lawrence Parks and Recreation Department's nature center for rehabilitation.
The animals and amphibians were seized due to care and neglect.
Marty Birrell, nature interpretive supervisor, said the nature center has been a refuge for other animals in the past when business operations have been closed down.
"We became involved because the Lawrence Humane Society had asked us to house some animals in the past," Birrell said. "The Lawrence Humane Society is seen as one of the best in the state and is often called upon to assist in this type of matter."
Snakes, frogs, rabbits, turtles, crabs, guinea pigs and spiders are now residing at the nature center, being cared for and nursed back to health. Once they've regained their weight and are healthy, the animals and amphibians will be used in educational settings by educators and nature centers across the region.
"We want to ensure these animals are given a home where they are taken care of properly," Birrell said. "Some of the animals are less docile, while others need specific things like a certain climate to thrive."
The animals' food and other necessities are being provided by the Prairie Park Partners, an organized non-profit friends group of the nature center, as well as by a local pet store. The partner group is also volunteering their time in caring for the animals.
Birrell said the animals will not be on display for the public while they are at nature center, but a few of the amphibians may become part of the nature center's permanent collection.
Source: Marty Birrell, 785-832-7980
Prepared by Roger Steinbrock, 785-832-3458
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