A new threat to BC’s injured wildlife; FLNRO & wildlife rehabilitators battle heats up
April 27, 2014 Rabbit Advocacy Group
The Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations has decided that BC’s wildlife rehabilitators cannot release back in to the wild any wildlife under Schedule C of the Wildlife Act.
Animals under Schedule C are granted very little, if any protection. Our government deems them “invasive” and often refers to these living creatures as “pests,” an offensive and derogatory term, reflecting an unsympathetic and outdated mindset.
The Wildlife Rehabilitator’s Network of BC has been in talks with the provincial government for many years regarding permits and the rules imposed upon them. Now it seems as though those talks have collapsed. While previously there had been no enforcement of the re-release conditions of injured, sick, orphaned, or polluted wildlife, it has now said the rules would be enforced and fine and/or charge rehabilitators for non-compliance.
Wildlife cannot be kept any longer than nine months in a permitted facility, leaving the rehabilitators with no other option but to kill now-healthy wildlife. Meanwhile, government has no management plan of its own, leaving the considerable burden on organizations and other caring individuals to help BC’s wildlife. We all need to take a strong stand and speak up against these government clowns. Actions may have to include civil disobedience, as common sense seems to be lacking.
Species affected include the European rabbit, the Eastern cottontail, the North American opossum, and a whole host of intelligent birds such as crows, starlings, and magpies.
Comment: Rehabbers across Canada have been dealing with draconian rules and stubborn, arrogant, and close-minded government officials. We are living under a government with increasing powers while compassionate citizens and OUR wildlife are under threat. As a supporter and volunteer with Critter Care Wildlife Society, we can attest to the wonderful work this group does, and the considerable frustrations it has in its dealing with government officials.
Wildlife Act, Schedule C Designation and Exemption Regulation
Wildlife Rehabilitators Network of BC
December 3, 2013 Vancouver Island woman reunited with pet pigeon
Comment: There was considerable outrage over this bureaucratic nightmare. Typical of authority running amok. We contacted the BC SPCA’s Wild Arc, the Ministry of FLNRO, and media outlets, as did thousands of other BC residents.
Note: Wildlife rehabilitators do not receive any financial compensation from the government.
October 4, 2013 Welland ends effort to save injured wildlife