Walden's Puddle seeks donations, help for animal care - WSMV Channel 4
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The severe drought in Middle Tennessee has had an impact on area wildlife, but one group works on behalf of that voiceless population.
Volunteers at Walden's Puddle have worked to raise a set of baby hawks that fell out of a nest in East Nashville to the point that the now full-grown birds were released back into the wild Wednesday.
"Once they are able to fly well, then they have to go through mouse school and prove to us they can hunt consistently and take care of themselves," said Bettina Bowers Schwan, with Walden's Puddle.
The hawks are not endangered, but they are federally protected and lucky to be alive.
The birds' release was just the latest effort for Walden's Puddle which, just like those birds, was also once on the brink of extinction, fought for survival and won.
When a former executive director pleaded guilty to embezzlement, the organization was on the verge of total collapse with two liens on the property, huge problems with the IRS and skeptical donors.
But now they are back doing only what they do, saying "yes" to any injured animal anywhere in Middle Tennessee.
"This is baby season and we're full to the brim," Bowers Schwan said.
Among the animals currently at the group's facility are 100 baby possums, 40 faun and dozens of other birds going through mouse school.
"We've got our hands full and could definitely use volunteer help if you're up for it, or any sort of monetary donations as well," Bowers Schwan said.
If you'd like to help, and for more information on how to donate or volunteer at Walden's Puddle, visit: http://waldenspuddle.org/.
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