EDUCATION AT AIWC

Education ambassador, Blackjack

A Wildlife Conservation Educator visiting a classroom with Blackjack

Education ambassador, Marigold

AIWC's Wildlife and Environmental Education Programs

"Wildlife and Habitat Conservation Through Rehabilitation, Education and Research"

A Commitment to Education

Wildlife rehabilitation is vital to both our community and our province. Care of Alberta's wildlife goes hand in hand with concern for the environment and the welfare of our fellow human beings. Understanding the lifecycles, behaviours and relationships of wildlife within our natural ecosystem provides us with a greater appreciation for these creatures and the habitat in which they live.

In the end, we value what we understand. Education is the most powerful tool there is in reducing human impact on wildlife. Many people are surprised to learn that 95% of the animals treated at AIWC have injuries from unnatural causes involving human impact on their habitat. Animals are hit by cars, electrocuted on power lines, attacked by domestic pets, injured in window collisions, tangled in barbed wire or fishing line, poisoned by chemicals or garbage, or displaced by well-meaning but misinformed people. Appreciation for wildlife combined with knowledge empowers us to make informed decisions in our daily lives, ranging from helping animals in distress to making responsible development decisions and choosing habitat preservation. AIWC provides positive approaches to environmental issues, and serves the public by offering education programs to promote greater stewardship of the environment.

We strive to make each program interesting and thought-provoking, from kindergarten up to university undergrads and veterinary students!

Dianne with Blackjack visiting a classroom.