Big Sky Bird Rescue is a nonprofit organization (501 (c)(3) application pending) dedicated to the rescue, refuge and rehabilitation of orphaned, sick or injured wild birds for their eventual release back into their natural habitat.
BSBR promotes responsibility and respect for living beings and the environment by building community awareness, involvement and education.
The organization specializes in songbird rescue, but also facilitates the placement of waterfowl and raptors in rehabilitation centers including Helena’s Flyaway Foundation and Bozeman’s Montana Raptor Conservation Center, BSBR’s fiscal sponsor.
As BSBR awaits final approval from state and federal agencies for wildlife rehabilitation permits, the group is working with other organizations to ensure that all birds brought in receive proper care.
Most of the birds BSBR sees are brought in by concerned community members who found the birds orphaned or displaced from their nests; injured by cars or windows; illegally shot; poisoned; or sick and unable to fly.
Many “finders” unsuccessfully seek help for the bird through a number of avenues before reaching BSBR. Early identification and capture of an injured bird is critical to its successful rehabilitation.
This rehabilitation process ranges from short-term refuge to involved medical procedures or surgery, followed by months of post-surgical rehab. The BSBR facility provides 24-hour, hands-on care, which Executive Director Mava Hurd believes is the reason for the organization’s above average, successful release rate of more than 60 percent.
This spring, BSBR will launch an awareness campaign about how to find help for injured birds.
Big Sky Bird Rescue is supported by George and Kym Rapier. BSBR needs public financial support as well as many items including game meat, towels and sheets.
To donate or volunteer to help with bird care, or if you find a bird in need of help, call (406) 993-9303 or (908) 247-1477. Visit bigskybirdrescue.com for more information.
