Everglades Outpost Inc.

Introduction

As a wildlife refuge, Everglades Outpost's number one purpose is to return any wild born creatures which find themselves in the hands of man back into their natural environment.

Due to pollution, loss of habitat, and increase of human development on the land of these animals, our refuge find ourselves rescuing more animals than ever. Our average rescue a year is an alarming 1000 animals! We are one of the only facilities in S. Florida who are licensed and insured to take in Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 animals.

Rescue and Treatment

Most of the temporary residents are brought to us by Wildlife Fish and Game officers and in more cases people who come across injured or abandoned wildlife. Because alligators are native to Florida, we also come to the rescue of alligators who find themselves lost in a human's backyard or in their pool or lake. Whatever animal and however we come upon these animals, each animal is thoroughly checked for their general health conditions. As rehabilitators we are fully trained to care for moderate to semi severe injuries. Should the injuries seem fatally severe, a wildlife veterinarian is then called on for assistance to the animal's injury.

After treatment to the injury, all are quarantined for a minimum of 24 hours. If all is well, we then feed them food supplements, vitamins and special milk supplements for the young.

Release

Mature animals that arrive at the Everglades Outpost are released as soon as it recovers. Most releases are done on a protected reserve or refuge grounds to give the animal a chance to readjust to being on its own again.

The releasing process for those who come in at a premature age is more complex. Predatory and foraging "techniques" ARE NOT INBORN instincts. They are normally taught by their mothers. As their human "MOMS", it is our responsibility to do the teaching. It is not easy teaching young wild animals to hunt which usually result in a nasty scratch from a soft paw, or blood shedding from a babies nibble. That's why it is highly recommended you don't try to RESCUE on your own! With much patience and love, the young will slowly progress…But much progression and learning is left for them to uncover on their own, in the wild.

We ensure that these orphaned and injured are no longer in need of human assistance with food and shelter before they are released back into the wild. When this is done, our job is finished until we come upon the next rescue.

Wildlife Tips

• Before taking matters into your own hands, call a wildlife refuge for advice. You may find that a lot of situations are better left alone and or these animals are not suited for rescue on your own. Rescuing animals on your own without experience may result in injuries to the animal or to YOU!
• People stumble upon baby raccoons or possums. In good nature they mistakenly take them away from their natural location thinking they had been abandoned or orphaned.

  Fact: Most of the time, these animals are NOT orphaned or abandoned. Their mothers are usually off seeking for food for them, which takes anywhere from 4-7 hours. Most of the time, the mother is nearby hiding and watching. She is hopeful that the humans will leave the babies alone, so she can retrieve them and place them back into safety. She will not come back if you are there.

  Tip: Stand back and watch or leave and come back to see if the parent has returned. Be sure they are really in need of your help before your intervene. Just remember, humans are poor care-takers compared to the natural mothers of these babies who provide them with the best nutrition and proper training for survival.

• Do NOT feed birds or any wildlife. Once a wild animal becomes accustomed to feeding care by humans, they will be dependent on this and will no longer rely on hunting instincts. It is unlikely they will survive in the wild.
• If you find a fallen nest, wire it back up in a tree at that location. Make sure the nest is well protected from rain or too much sun.
• A healthy wild animal, unless a newborn baby, will not let a human come near. If you find an animal that is sick or injured - do NOT touch it. A sick or injured animal will attack you out of pain or fear! Call your local Animal Control, Wildlife officers and or State Park Ranger.

Wildlife Facts

• An animal that has lost its normal fear of humans will not survive in the wild. Releasing a tame wild animal is similar to giving it a death sentence.
• Many diseases that an animal get can be passed on to humans. Outcomes of such diseases can sometimes be fatal.
• Alligators and crocodiles are protected species. Without the proper licensing it is illegal for you to take them in your home. By nature they are shy and avoid human contact. Please do not disturb if they show no signs of threat.
• Young wild animals may seem tame at first. Over time, they are bound to become wilder and less friendly as time passes. Please remember: Wild animals do NOT make good pets.
• Parents do not abandon their babies because a human has touched them.

Please call the Everglades Outpost for any wildlife emergency in South Florida. We will also be glad to help with any questions and concerns regarding wildlife. (305) 247-8000