Our Facilities...

WBS' Rehabilitation Department treats 200-300 raptors annually. Through the years WBS has been called upon by many government agencies to assist in the rescue and relocation of smuggled and confiscated animals. In 2005 WBS officially opened the doors to a new wildlife hospital located centrally at the sanctuary. This hospital features viewing windows so guests may see injured birds being cared for and readied for release into the wild.

If you find an ill or injured bird of prey, please call our Rehabilitation Hospital at (636) 861-1392.

When attempting to capture an injured bird of prey for transport, BE EXTREMELY CAUTIOUS OF THEIR FEET AND TALONS. Wear gloves and cover the bird with a thick blanket and place it immediately in a pet carrier or cardboard box that can be closed securely. Do not attempt to care for the bird yourself. Bring it immediately to a rehabilitation center such as the World Bird Sanctuary.

"Freedom's" Return:

On April 2nd, 2002, a call was made to the Missouri Department of Conservation's East Central Office in Sullivan, MO; an American Bald Eagle had been injured in the wild by an individual who does not comprehend the value of life. MDC Officials searched for the injured bird and found her along the Gasconade River in Maries County.

The wounded Eagle, an adult female, was immediately transferred to the raptor rehabilitation department of the World Bird Sanctuary in St. Louis. Upon examination, it was determined that the bird had been shot. There was extensive damage to her left wing with the projectiles breaking the ulna in three places.

WBS' rehabilitation team worked side by side with volunteer veterinarians Dr. Stacey Schaeffer Siebel-Spath and Dr. Erik Siebel-Spath from the St. Louis Veterinary Clinic to determine the best course of action for the bird. Extensive surgery was performed to repair the damage, a pin was inserted to re-connect the bone fragments and stabilize them during the healing process. Recovery was going to take months.

Bird bones are hollow, making them extremely sensitive to work with. After extensive post operative conditioning by individuals dedicated to her successful recovery, it was determined that the bone had healed perfectly, she was ready to return to the wild to once again reign as a master of the sky.

The majestic bird was named "Freedom" because of her tenacious attitude and will to live. Most birds have an ability humans can only dream of: to lift off at a moment's notice and take flight, to soar to a place where the wind and the clouds are your only companions. "Freedom's" fight for flight is an inspiration.