We have a shared responsibility to wildlife. For as long as there have been people, there have been dangers to our wildlife. We believe our responsibility to wildlife goes far beyond the walls of our clinic.
Education programs that emphasize the importance of environmental protection may be the most important investment we can offer Alberta’s youth.
The Adaptations program focuses on the fascinating physical and behavioural characteristics of local wildlife that help them to survive in their environments. Features such as feathers, fur, talons, whiskers, and nocturnal and migratory behaviours are discussed.
Bat Basics provides an introduction to Alberta’s nine bat species, and discusses their life histories, major threats, and how having bats around directly benefits humans. Though no live bats are present during this program, biofacts and mounts are used to illustrate the differences between bat species.
AIWC’s Birds of Prey program takes participants through the different species of birds of prey, including hawks, eagles, falcons, and owls, which are present in Alberta. Besides looking at the life histories of these birds, the program also features biofacts such as wings and talons.
Learn all about one of Alberta’s most misunderstood creatures. During this program, skunk life histories and behaviour are discussed, and participants may discover that skunks actually make good neighbours!
Wetlands Wildlife introduces learners to wetland ecosystems, exploring topics such as the types of wetlands found in Alberta, the function of wetlands, and the animals that inhabit them.
A highly interactive program focusing on the common wildlife of Alberta. Participants will learn about local wildlife, and why they are sometimes in need of rescuing.
Take a close look into the inner workings of a local wildlife rehabilitation centre, from the field rescues to releases. During this program, participants will explore topics such as why animals are admitted to the clinic, what animals are currently there, and what to do if they find an injured wild animal.
This program delves into the 11 species of owls found in Alberta. Participants will learn about the special adaptations of these nocturnal birds of prey, how to identify local species of owls, and even dissect an owl pellet!
Are you interested in seeing how a wildlife rehabilitation centre operates first hand? Join us on a live, virtual tour of our hospital and rehabilitation enclosures. You and your group will learn what the centre looks like, where different patients are kept and how they are cared for, while also having your questions answered immediately by your guide!
Presentations are approximately 1-hour long; with the exception of the World of Owls presentation which includes dissecting owl pellets.
All programs can be modified as per the audience’s age. Depending on the age group and program, props, puppets, biofacts, and PowerPoint slides are used in presentations.
Do you require a different presentation for your group? Get in touch with us at education@aiwc.ca.
* Groups can expect an additional fee of $4.00 per person for over 35 attendees.
** Requests for programs outside of zones 1 and 2 are considered on a case-by-case basis, please contact us directly at education@aiwc.ca for more information. These programs will be charged a travel fee of $0.58 per KM traveled.