A special thank you to Joel Sartore and his team for helping us judge all the entries for the 2024 Wildlife Photography Contest. Joel’s expertise and passion for wildlife photography have been invaluable in selecting the winners and ensuring that the contest upholds the highest standards of excellence. His dedication to conservation and storytelling through photography continues to inspire photographers from all over.
CONTINUED SUCCESS
At the South Florida Wildlife Center (SFWC), we’re deeply committed to providing care for injured, orphaned, or displaced wildlife, especially as human activities increasingly encroach on natural habitats. Our mission is to rehabilitate these animals and prepare them for a return to their natural homes.
We handle a diverse range of species, from common urban wildlife like Gray Squirrels and Blue Jays to endangered ones such as Wood Storks and Gopher Tortoises. Our goal is always to heal and rehabilitate so that they can be released back into the wild.
Our work has a broader impact on conservation efforts. We collaborate with other organizations, government agencies, and research institutions to monitor wildlife health and track disease outbreaks. This helps us provide valuable data for conservation science and supports the overall health of ecosystems.
We also play a vital role in the conservation of endangered species by caring for injured or orphaned individuals, which gives these species a better chance at recovery. This hands-on approach complements broader efforts like habitat preservation and legal protection.
One of our most important roles is educating the public. Through our programs, tours, and volunteer opportunities, we teach people about local wildlife and the challenges they face. By raising awareness and fostering a sense of stewardship, we inspire individuals to take action in their communities, whether that means supporting conservation efforts, reducing their ecological footprint, or being more mindful of their interactions with nature.
In today’s urbanized and digital world, many people have lost their connection to nature. At SFWC, we strive to bridge this gap by offering tangible experiences with wildlife. By providing opportunities for people to see, touch, and learn about animals, we help rekindle a sense of wonder and respect for the natural world.
Thank you for your support and for letting us continue our mission of protecting wildlife through rescue, rehabilitation and education.
Volunteering at SFWC offers individuals the chance to engage directly with wildlife conservation. This handson experience can be transformative, deepening one’s appreciation for the intricate balance of ecosystems and the vital role each species plays within them. By working closely with animals and contributing to their rehabilitation, volunteers gain a unique perspective on the importance of preserving our natural world.
January 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024
8,857
SFWC PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS
Wildlife photography stands as one of the most demanding and gratifying genres to explore with a camera. Capturing the essence of intimate interactions and majestic migrations tests photographers both technically and creatively, challenging them to create images that tell the profound stories of the animals that share our world. South Florida, with its stunning coastal habitats, forests, prairies, and the iconic Everglades, offers a unique canvas for these stories. Despite these natural havens, the wildlife here have adapted ingeniously, finding innovative ways to live, forage, hunt for food, and raise their young safely. This contest aims to inspire people to step outside and appreciate the wild neighbors that enrich our environment.
The South Florida Wildlife Center’s fourth annual Wildlife Photography Contest was a resounding success, attracting nearly 1,000 entries from across the nation. Each photograph provided a window into the remarkable diversity of wildlife that we are privileged to share our home with. Our heartfelt congratulations go out to the six winners whose exceptional talent and dedication shone through in their stunning captures. While only a select few could take home prizes, the overwhelming talent and support from all participants were truly commendable.
We are excited to showcase these incredible photos on social media, in various publications, throughout our website, and in a 2025 calendar. This year’s contest has set a high bar, and we eagerly anticipate the creativity and passion that next year’s entries will undoubtedly bring. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped celebrate the vibrant wildlife that surrounds us.
Looking Ahead
As we look forward to next year's contest, we encourage all nature enthusiasts and photographers to continue exploring the wild spaces around them. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a budding amateur, there is always something new to discover and capture through your lens. The South Florida Wildlife Center remains committed to supporting and celebrating the incredible work of wildlife photographers, whose images remind us of the beauty and fragility of the world we share.
Check out the winners on the following pages!
WINNER: JUNIOR CATEGORY
Green Bee By Hudson D
Second Place Veiled Chameleon
By Bella C.
Third Place
Gray Squirrel
By Hudson D.
Fourth Place
American Alligator
By Bella C.
REPTILE
White-tailed Deer and Cattle Egret by Michele Kellogg
Yellow-bellied Slider by Debra Martins
UP CLOSE URBAN
Green Bee by Christopher Harrington
Blue Jays by Frank Balestrieri
OVERALL WINNER
Great Blue Heron and Banded Watersnake by Phoenix Marks
The majestic Great Blue hHeron, with its striking silhouette and graceful demeanor, is a symbol of tranquility and resilience in the wetlands of North America. Standing tall on long, slender legs, these birds epitomize elegance as they wade through shallow waters in search of their next meal. Their presence is not just a testament to the health of our ecosystems but also a reminder of the intricate balance of nature that we must strive to protect.
However, the great blue heron’s existence is increasingly threatened by habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Wetlands, their primary habitat, are being drained and developed at an alarming rate. Pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial waste contaminates the waters they depend on, affecting not just the herons but the entire food chain.
In 2024, the South Florida Wildlife Center admitted nearly 30 Great Blue Herons as patients, each presenting with a variety of serious issues. Some of these majestic birds were found weak and unable to fly, indicating possible malnutrition, illness, or exhaustion. Others were entangled in fishing lines, a common and often deadly hazard for aquatic birds in regions heavily frequented by anglers. These entanglements can cause severe injuries, infections, and impair the birds’ ability to feed and move.
Additionally, several Great Blue Herons were brought in after being hit by cars, a tragic consequence of their increasing overlap with human-inhabited areas. Collisions with vehicles can result in a range of injuries, from broken wings and legs to internal damage, all requiring urgent and specialized care.
The dedicated staff and volunteers at the South Florida Wildlife Center work tirelessly to provide medical treatment, rehabilitation, and a safe environment for these injured birds. Their efforts are crucial in helping these Great Blue Herons recover and, whenever possible, return to their natural habitats. This work not only saves individual lives but also supports the health of the local ecosystem by ensuring that these important predators continue to thrive.
OUTREACH & EDUCATION
At the South Florida Wildlife Center (SFWC), we’re passionate about wildlife preservation and environmental stewardship. A core part of our mission is our commitment to education and outreach programs that not only inform but also inspire action and deepen the community’s connection to the natural world. Through a variety of initiatives, we aim to nurture a generation of environmentally conscious individuals who are ready to advocate for and protect South Florida’s unique ecosystems.
Our school programs are particularly impactful. By integrating wildlife education into school curricula, we provide students with unique opportunities to learn about local wildlife and the importance of conservation. Interactive presentations and classroom visits by our animal ambassadors make these lessons memorable and engaging. These programs enhance students’ understanding of biology and ecology while instilling a sense of responsibility and respect for the environment.
We also prioritize community outreach. We actively participate in local events, fairs, and festivals, bringing wildlife education to a broader audience. Our mobile exhibits, featuring live animals and interactive displays, attract crowds and spark conversations about wildlife conservation. These outreach activities are crucial for reaching individuals who might not seek out environmental education otherwise, helping us foster a culture of conservation throughout the community.
Our education and outreach efforts go beyond just sharing knowledge—they aim to inspire action and foster a deeper connection to nature. By equipping individuals with the tools and understanding needed to protect their environment, we’re cultivating a community of informed and motivated conservationists. In a time when environmental challenges are increasingly complex, our ongoing dedication to education will play a pivotal role in ensuring that South Florida’s unique ecosystems are protected for generations to come.
To check out our upcoming programs, visit www.southfloridawildlifecenter.org/events/
Outreach Specialist, Tava, with Ramen, our Ball Python, at our annual Drink 4 the Locals event at LauderAle Brewery & Taproom.
WAYS TO CONTRIBUTE
The South Florida Wildlife Center plays a crucial role in protecting and rehabilitating wildlife, and there are many ways you can support our important work. Whether through donations, volunteering, or other forms of engagement, your contributions can make a significant difference. Here are some ways to get involved:
Monetary Donations
• One-Time Donations: A one-time financial contribution can help cover the costs of medical supplies, food, and habitat maintenance for injured and orphaned wildlife.
• Monthly Giving: Becoming a monthly donor provides the Center with a steady stream of income, ensuring we have the resources needed for continuous care and operations.
• Legacy Gifts: Include the South Florida Wildlife Center in your estate planning to leave a lasting impact on wildlife conservation.
In-Kind Donations
• Supplies and Equipment: Donate items such as animal food, medical supplies, cleaning products, and office supplies. Check out our wish list for specific needs!
• Auction Items: Contribute goods or services for fundraising auctions, which help raise essential funds for the Center's operations.
Symbolically Adopt an Ambassador Animal
• Your support of our STAY WILD! Adoption Program helps to provide the best possible veterinary care, staffing, training, and husbandry, as well as enclosure upkeep for our Wildlife Education Ambassador Animals.
Attend Events
• Fundraising Events: Participate in fundraising galas, charity runs, and other events hosted by the Center. These events are not only enjoyable but also crucial for raising funds and awareness.
• Workshops and Educational Programs: Attend workshops and programs to learn more about wildlife conservation and how you can contribute.
Corporate Partnerships
• Sponsorship: Businesses can sponsor events, programs, or specific projects at the Center, providing financial support and gaining positive public relations benefits.
• Employee Engagement: Encourage your company to organize volunteer days or matching gift programs to double the impact of employee donations.
Shop to Support
• Online Shopping: Purchase branded merchandise from the Center’s gift shop. Proceeds from sales go directly to supporting our work.
Your support, in any form, helps ensure that the South Florida Wildlife Center can continue its mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing wildlife, while also educating the public and advocating for the protection of our natural world. Every contribution, no matter how small, plays a part in making a positive impact on the lives of countless animals.
SPECIES SPOTLIGHT BALD EAGLE
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
The Bald Eagle, with its majestic appearance and symbolic significance, embodies strength, freedom, and the resilience of nature. Once on the brink of extinction, the bald eagle’s remarkable recovery highlights the effectiveness of conservation efforts and our role in protecting wildlife. This bird of prey, adopted as the national emblem in 1782, faced severe threats in the mid-20th century due to habitat destruction, hunting, and the pesticide DDT, leading to dramatic population declines.
The turning point came with the banning of DDT in 1972 and the Endangered Species Act in 1973, which, along with dedicated conservation programs, helped restore bald eagle populations. By 2007, the species was removed from the endangered list, marking a significant conservation success. Today, bald eagle sightings are increasingly common, serving as a symbol of hope and nature’s ability to recover.
However, the bald eagle’s story also serves as a reminder of ongoing challenges, including habitat loss, lead poisoning, and climate change. Continued vigilance and conservation efforts are essential to address these threats. Public education and engagement remain crucial components of bald eagle conservation. Organizations and wildlife centers play a vital role in raising awareness about the importance of protecting these birds and their habitats. By fostering a connection between people and wildlife, these efforts help cultivate a sense of stewardship and responsibility. Engaged and informed communities are better equipped to advocate for policies and practices that support the conservation of bald eagles and other vulnerable species.
This Bald Eagle (24-1760) was brought to our center after being found on the side of the road. Veterinary staff determined it was likely struck by a car or collided with an object, though the exact cause remains unknown without an eyewitness. After 111 days of treatment and physical therapy, this Bald Eagle has been cleared for release. He has been returned to a suitable habitat where he can live out the rest of his life.
Thank you to Palm Beach County EagleWatch for assisting us in returning this eagle to its original territory!
COASTAL CONSERVATION
Our recent coastal conservation efforts involve organizing beach clean-ups, rescuing and rehabilitating injured seabirds, and raising public awareness about environmental stewardship. At the South Florida Wildlife Center, we are committed to playing a vital role in wildlife conservation, especially in protecting our coastal ecosystems.
A central part of our work is our bi-annual beach clean-ups, which address pollution— particularly plastic waste—that threatens marine life and damages beach environments. By engaging volunteers and collaborating with local communities, we effectively remove debris and promote environmental responsibility.
Additionally, as a wildlife hospital, we focus on rescuing and rehabilitating injured seabirds year-round, including pelicans and gulls often affected by human activities. Our team provides critical medical care with the aim of returning these birds to their natural habitats, reflecting our dedication to protecting wildlife through rescue, rehabilitation and education.
Our Summer 2024 event, sponsored by Rock the Ocean, was a great success, with approximately 400 pounds of trash collected. Thank you to everyone who joined us; your efforts have made a significant impact on the local beach!
4 rehabilitated patients were succesfully returned to the wild!
SEASON OF NEW BEGINNINGS
As spring unfolds in South Florida, the region comes alive with the sights and sounds of baby season, a time of renewal and bustling activity in the natural world. From the smallest insects to the largest mammals, wildlife is busy with the important work of nurturing the next generation. This season, full of hope and new beginnings, also brings unique challenges and opportunities for conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts.
However, baby season is not without its challenges. Urban development continues to encroach on natural habitats, increasing the likelihood of human-wildlife conflicts. Young animals are particularly vulnerable to dangers such as traffic, domestic pets, and pollution. Additionally, climate change is altering breeding seasons and food availability, adding further stress to already precarious situations.
The South Florida Wildlife Center plays a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. During baby season, the Center sees a significant increase in the number of orphaned, injured, and displaced wildlife brought in for care. Dedicated staff and volunteers work tirelessly to provide medical attention, rehabilitation, and safe release back into the wild. Their expertise ensures that each animal has the best possible chance of survival and successful reintegration into its natural habitat.
Education and public awareness are also critical components of SFWC’s efforts. The Center offers valuable guidance on what to do if you encounter a baby animal that appears to be in distress. Often, well-meaning individuals may inadvertently cause harm by intervening when it’s not necessary. SFWC provides resources to help distinguish between true emergencies and situations where the best course of action is to leave the animal alone. Public education campaigns emphasize the importance of coexisting peacefully with wildlife and the steps individuals can take to protect young animals during this vulnerable time.
