Mika Birds Farm Hosts Nutrition Workshop for Avian Rescue Organizations: Register Now
Avian Rescue Organizations
Avian Rescue Initiatives
Avian rescue organizations across the country are on the frontlines of protecting and rehabilitating vulnerable bird populations. From songbirds displaced by habitat loss to raptors injured by human activity, these dedicated teams work tirelessly to provide expert care, release wildlife back into healthy ecosystems, and promote conservation efforts.
One of the most critical aspects of avian rescue is ensuring proper nutrition for recovering birds. Malnutrition and improper feeding are common challenges faced by rescue groups, which can severely impact a bird’s chances of survival and successful reintroduction to the wild. That’s why specialized workshops and training are so vital for equipping these organizations with the knowledge and resources to meet the unique dietary needs of diverse avian species.
Avian Nutrition Workshops
Mika Birds Farm is proud to host a comprehensive Avian Nutrition Workshop tailored specifically for avian rescue and rehabilitation professionals. This one-day intensive program will cover the fundamentals of avian nutrition, from understanding species-specific requirements to developing optimal feeding protocols and meal plans.
Attendees will learn from leading experts in the field, gaining practical insights that can be immediately applied to their rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Topics will include:
- Nutritional needs for common rescued species (songbirds, raptors, waterfowl, etc.)
- Formulating balanced diets using appropriate ingredients
- Feeding strategies for birds in various stages of care
- Identifying and addressing nutritional deficiencies or imbalances
- Transitioning birds from formula to solid foods
- Preparing and storing specialized avian diets
- Monitoring feeding behaviors and body condition
Hands-on demonstrations, case studies, and interactive Q&A sessions will ensure participants leave the workshop equipped with the knowledge and confidence to provide the highest level of nutritional care for the birds in their charge.
Mika Birds Farm
Farm Overview
Mika Birds Farm is a leading avian education and conservation center located in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Established over 20 years ago, the farm provides a safe haven for a diverse array of native and exotic bird species, serving as a model for responsible habitat management and humane animal care.
With over 50 acres of carefully curated environments, the farm’s aviaries, wetlands, and forests offer ideal conditions for birds to thrive. Expert caretakers monitor the health and welfare of each resident, while also coordinating rehabilitation efforts for injured or orphaned wildlife brought to the farm.
Mika Birds Farm’s mission extends beyond onsite care, however. The facility hosts a variety of educational programs, tours, and special events to engage the public and foster a deeper appreciation for the avian world. From hands-on encounters with ambassador birds to immersive habitat explorations, visitors leave with a renewed commitment to bird conservation.
Nutrition Education Events
At the core of Mika Birds Farm’s educational offerings is a focus on avian nutrition and wellness. In addition to the upcoming Avian Nutrition Workshop, the farm regularly hosts interactive seminars, feeding demonstrations, and Q&A sessions to empower both professional and amateur bird enthusiasts.
“Proper nutrition is the foundation of avian health and rehabilitation,” explains Dr. Avery Michaels, the farm’s lead avian veterinarian. “By sharing our expertise and resources, we hope to equip rescue organizations with the knowledge and skills to optimize the care they provide for the birds in their charge.”
The upcoming Avian Nutrition Workshop will delve into the unique dietary requirements of diverse avian species, from delicate songbirds to majestic birds of prey. Attendees will learn how to formulate balanced meals, introduce new foods, and monitor feeding behaviors to support each bird’s individual needs throughout the rehabilitation process.
“We’re thrilled to host this specialized training for our fellow avian advocates,” says Mika Birds Farm director, Talia Greenfield. “Giving rescue organizations the tools they need to ensure optimal nutrition is a critical part of our mission to protect vulnerable bird populations.”
Avian Species and Habitats
Native Bird Populations
The Pacific Northwest region is home to a rich tapestry of native bird life, from the iconic bald eagle soaring over coastal forests to the melodic chorus of songbirds flitting through urban parks. These avian residents play vital roles within their ecosystems, contributing to the delicate balance of biodiversity.
Unfortunately, many native bird species face growing threats to their populations and habitats. Habitat loss, climate change, and human activity have all contributed to the decline of several iconic Pacific Northwest birds, including the marbled murrelet, spotted owl, and streaked horned lark.
Threatened Bird Species
Rescue and rehabilitation efforts are especially crucial for threatened and endangered avian populations. Birds that fall victim to collisions, entanglement, or other human-caused incidents require specialized care to ensure their successful return to the wild.
“We’ve seen an uptick in the number of rare and protected species coming through our doors in recent years,” notes Dr. Michaels. “From restoring injured raptors to hand-raising orphaned chicks, our team is dedicated to giving these birds the best possible chance at survival and reintegration into their native habitats.”
Mika Birds Farm works closely with state and federal wildlife agencies to support conservation efforts for at-risk bird populations. The farm’s expansive, naturalistic enclosures provide temporary homes for recovering birds, while also serving as educational showcases to inspire visitors to protect vulnerable avian species.
Avian Health and Wellness
Veterinary Care for Rescued Birds
At the heart of Mika Birds Farm’s avian rescue and rehabilitation efforts is a state-of-the-art veterinary clinic, staffed by a team of highly skilled avian specialists. From initial intake assessments to long-term treatment plans, the clinic provides comprehensive medical care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
“When a bird arrives at our facility, the first priority is to stabilize its condition and address any acute injuries or illnesses,” explains Dr. Michaels. “This involves a thorough physical exam, diagnostic testing, and the implementation of a strategic treatment protocol.”
Depending on the bird’s condition, the rehabilitation process may involve wound management, pain control, fluid therapy, specialized diets, and physical therapy. Regular monitoring and adjustments ensure each patient is progressing towards a full recovery and eventual release back into the wild.
Avian Enrichment and Rehabilitation
But the journey to reintegration doesn’t end at the veterinary clinic. Mika Birds Farm’s rehabilitation team works diligently to prepare rescued birds for their return to nature, focusing on both physical and behavioral conditioning.
“Enrichment and training are essential components of our rehabilitation efforts,” says lead rehabilitator, Samantha Howell. “We design specialized enclosures and activity schedules to encourage natural behaviors, build strength and stamina, and assess each bird’s readiness for release.”
From flight conditioning in custom-built aviaries to the introduction of complex foraging puzzles, the farm’s rehabilitative approach is tailored to the unique needs of each species. Regular behavioral assessments help the team identify any lingering concerns or areas requiring additional support before a bird is cleared for release.
“Seeing a recovered bird take flight back into its native habitat is the most rewarding part of our work,” Howell reflects. “It’s a testament to the dedication of our entire team and the resilience of these incredible creatures.”
Whether caring for songbirds, raptors, or waterfowl, the experts at Mika Birds Farm are committed to providing the highest standard of avian rehabilitation and wellness. By sharing their knowledge and resources with fellow rescue organizations, they hope to empower a network of advocates who can collectively make a lasting impact on bird conservation.
To register for the upcoming Avian Nutrition Workshop, please visit https://mikabirdsfarm.com/. Spaces are limited, so don’t delay! Join us in equipping avian rescuers with the tools they need to ensure the health and successful reintroduction of vulnerable bird populations.
