GSPCA's plans for wildlife hospital approved

Monday 25 February 2019

The GSPCA's proposals to build a new wildlife hospital with much-needed new care facilities have received planning approval.

The development, which the charity needs to raise around £900,000 to pay for, will provide upgraded facilities for the GSPCA's care of wild animals, most of which is currently carried out within former kennels and cattery buildings.

If fundraising is successful, the new buildings will provide a wildlife unit, which will include indoor and outdoor aviaries, wildlife units, oiled bird units, seal units and an outdoor seal pool, as well as a reception, office, kitchen and garage.

Commenting on the proposals, States vet David Chamberlain said the work would enable the GSPCA to provide the best care possible to the 2,000 or so wild animals they treat per year.

"The husbandry and care requirements for domestic and wild animals are very different and they should be accommodated in appropriate and separate facilities, which is not always possible in the current buildings at the shelter," he said.

"A dedicated wildlife facility will overcome this compromise. There are five large groups of wild animals that are cared for by the GSPCA - injured/underweight hedgehogs, diseased hedgehogs, raptors (birds of prey), pigeons & garden birds/fledglings, ducks. The wildlife facility has eight multi-purpose units and eight aviaries which will meet these demands and any potential overflow or subgroups.

"Importantly, the facility meets a requirement to separate predator and prey species that must not be accommodated in the same unit. The facility also enables carers to remain hidden from the animals that they are caring for, therefore avoiding habituation to humans."

Speaking about the facilities which would be made available for birds in the GSPCA's care, Mr Chamberlain added: "The aviaries and pools allow birds to spread their wings and strengthen their flight muscles with is a prerequisite prior to rehabilitation and release."

To help pay for the wildlife hospital, the GSPCA launched an Exclusive Build Partner scheme and a Buy a Brick Scheme for individuals and businesses looking to support the build.

More details about these schemes and sponsorship options can be found on the GSPCA's website. 

Pictured top: An artist's impression of the hospital.