Sanibel Island has a very unique resource, and one that makes the Island proud. CROW stands for Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife and its roots date back to the 1960’s when a local resident found an injured royal tern and took it home to nurse it back to health. A group of volunteers began to recognize the need for a place where injured wildlife could be treated and then released back into the wild. The concept of CROW was born with those early volunteers, and what better place to establish a wildlife treatment center than Sanibel.
In an average year, CROW will treat upwards of 3,500 sick, injured or orphaned patients in its 4,800 square foot hospital. Fellowships and internships are available to veterinarians and veterinary students in training. The Visitor’s Education Center, along with the new hospital, opened in 2009 on the organization’s 40th anniversary. The Education Center presents interactive displays, presentations and video footage of former patients.
Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday at 2:00 pm, CROW features the Wildlife Walk. It begins by presenting CROW’s medical and rehabilitation methods. This part of the program is approximately 45 minutes. For the latter half of the program, participants are given a guided tour through the treatment areas of the hospital. Visitors can ask questions of the wildlife rehabilitators and learn about their daily duties. A photo opportunity with one of CROW’s Animal Ambassadors is available at the end of the tour.
Advanced registration is required for the Wildlife Walk and the cost is $20 per person. It is not recommended for children under 13. To register call (239) 472-3644, extension #228 or email rrainbolt@crowclinic.org. All proceeds from the tour go toward patient care at CROW’s hospital.
Located on the east end of Sanibel Island, just one mile from the historic Sanibel Lighthouse, our vacation rental condo community is nestled beachfront on the Gulf of Mexico. Sandalfoot Beachfront Condominium has been consistently ranked #1 and #2 in our category by TripAdvisor, also receiving their Certificate of Excellence three years in a row. Sandalfoot Beachfront Condominium. So much more than a room with a view!
