History of Wild B.I.R.D.

It was in the year 1999 that Debbie Strimple began to meet like-minded people who were interested in helping wild birds. Debbie S., Laura M., Cindy E. and Shannon J. researched and found a zoning code that would allow for a wild bird rehabilitation center to exist in Denver. Debbie and Laura studied for one year with federally licensed rehabilitators and after successfully completing the course, obtained their own wild life rehabilitation licenses.

Together they wrote articles of incorporation and bylaws, put together a board and opened the first Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center in the history of Denver. Between the years 2000 to 2006, the rehabilitation center has cared for more than 8,000 orphaned, sick and injured birds.

The center is a non-profit organization and is primarily funded by public donations. The center got its first $200 from customers dropping money in a bucket located in a Wild Bird Center retail store. Debbie and Laura put their jobs and lives on hold to work at the rehabilitation center for the first three years without wages. Debbie is passing on her vast knowledge through hiring and training interns interested in the future of Colorado wildlife.

The rehabilitation center is open from May 1, through the end of August. The goal of the center is to be open year round...