College Station’s Heartwarming Haven for Wildlife
In the bustling city of College Station, a remarkable sanctuary stands out for its commitment to rescuing and rehabilitating animals. Paws and Claws Wildlife Rehabilitation, led by certified wildlife rehabilitator Krista Bligh, has become a beacon of hope for countless critters in need, from three-legged opossums to owls with poor eyesight.
Growing Up with a Passion
Krista’s journey into the world of wildlife rehabilitation is both heartwarming and inspiring. “My mom was a licensed rehabber before me, so I actually grew up rehabilitating animals,” she reminisced. “As soon as I could walk, I was feeding fawns and sharing my hair with squirrels!” It’s no wonder that when Krista noticed the absence of wildlife rehabilitators in her community back in 2020, she took matters into her own hands. “I started Paws and Claws in my freshman year at A&M, intending only to care for a few animals. By the end of that year, I had 500!”
A Lifeline for Wildlife
Now, Paws and Claws takes in over 1,000 animals each year. This includes not just the small creatures that often find their way to the shelter, like squirrels and bunnies, but also larger animals like owls and, recently, an alligator that was relocated by the College Station Police Department. “Many people don’t realize that alligators are native to Texas,” Krista explained. “You can find them in places like the Navasota River!”
This wildlife haven operates mainly on public outreach, inviting folks to reach out whenever they come across a distressed animal. “We always urge people to contact us right away if they find an animal that seems off. Wildlife usually hides their sickness. It’s a sign something is wrong,” Krista emphasized.
Facing the Harsh Realities
While the rehabilitation process can be incredibly rewarding, it’s not without its hard truths. “I would say 90% of what we receive is due to human causes,” Krista noted somberly. “It’s not nature that’s harming them.” Many animals arrive in dire conditions, and Krista often reflects on the tough reality: “Almost every animal we take in is actively dying. If I have a healthy animal, something has gone wrong elsewhere.”
One of the recent arrivals, a young, inexperienced alligator, highlighted the urgent situations this center frequently faces.
Not Just Rehabilitation: Making a Connection
For animals that cannot be released back into the wild due to injury or learned dependence on humans, Krista and her team work to transform them into ambassadors for their species. “We have Peggy, our three-legged opossum, who has a wonderful story,” she said. “She lost her leg due to a cat when she was a baby and has lived with humans ever since. When people meet Peggy, those who once feared opossums find themselves charmed by her!”
Paws and Claws also welcomes volunteers and interns from Texas A&M, providing opportunities for those interested in learning more about wildlife rehabilitation. Krista encourages those who wish to dive into this rewarding side of caregiving to start volunteering first. “It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s so fulfilling,” she said with a smile.
The Community Connection
Despite an initial shortage of wildlife rehabbers in the area, Krista is pleased to see new facilities opening up. “A new center just popped up in Hearne, and we have trained a few others who are now starting their own practices,” she mentioned cheerfully.
However, the struggles to keep up with specific needs—like food and specialized equipment—are daunting. Paws and Claws relies entirely on community donations, as they are not funded by any state or federal entity. Krista joked about her inability to say no to animals in need, but it’s clear from her tone that her dedication drives the operation. “The best part is always releasing an animal back into the wild; that’s our ultimate goal.”
Get in Touch
For anyone in the Brazos County area who encounters an animal in distress, Krista invites you to reach out at 979-676-3974. Whether it’s to rescue a creature in need or for guidance on relocating animals, she and her team are always ready to help.
With conservation and compassion at the forefront, Paws and Claws Wildlife Rehabilitation remains a radiant symbol of kindness in College Station. Their mission not only helps individual animals but also fosters a sense of community responsibility toward Texas’s vibrant wildlife.
