Raven Ridge Wildlife Center

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Raven Ridge Wildlife Center We are a non-profit wildlife rehabilitation center (EIN # 47-2143893) located in Washington Boro, PA. of information on non-profit organizations.
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We specialize in rehabilitating injured birds of prey and rabies vector species mammals in Lancaster and surrounding counties. Our Amazon Wish List:
https://smile.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1NLCQ9ORTEIV5

Our goal is to give wildlife a second chance at life across this beautiful state. We are constantly expanding our facilities to offer the highest quality care to as many animals as possible. Once our patients are fully healed, we release them into the wild again where they can live out the rest of their lives as part of a healthy and balanced ecosystem. Raven Ridge Wildlife Center has achieved the Platinum Seal of Transparency Rating on GuideStar, the world's largest source. View our GuideStar profile here:
https://www.guidestar.org/profile/47-2143893

Donations may be sent to P.O. Box 38, Washington Boro, PA 17582

Donate Via Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/ravenridgewildlifecenter

Order RRWC swag here! https://artisticimprints.3dcartstores.com/Raven-Ridge-Wildlife-Center_c_711.html

Thank you for your support!

Nature can be tough for wildlife, especially for this year’s hatchlings like the Red-Tailed Hawk. Around this time, we s...
10/15/2026

Nature can be tough for wildlife, especially for this year’s hatchlings like the Red-Tailed Hawk. Around this time, we start to admit juvenile birds of prey that need extra help learning to hunt and survive. Unfortunately, nature doesn’t always give them enough time to master these skills before migration. This young Red-Tailed Hawk was found by the side of the road, unable to stand or fly. At first, the person who found him thought he was dead, but then saw him lift his head. The rescuer quickly pulled over and picked up the weak hawk, bringing him straight to our facility. The hawk was very thin, dehydrated, and had several wounds and scrapes from being hit by a vehicle. These hungry birds often look for food along roadsides, where they find dead animals, but this puts them at risk of being struck by cars. After several weeks of care, we were happy to release this hawk, now stronger and ready to begin his long migration.

Many juvenile Red-tailed Hawks do not survive their first year, with mortality rates often ranging from 80% to 90%. This high mortality rate is largely due to the challenging transition from relying on their parents to becoming independent predators. During this period, young hawks must learn essential hunting skills, navigate migrations, and avoid new predators as well as human-related dangers, such as vehicle collisions and severe weather conditions like heavy snow.

While Red-tailed Hawks can live up to 30 years in captivity, their lifespans in the wild are typically much shorter. A significant percentage of these hawks perish within their first year due to inexperience. Some may starve, while others face threats such as being hit by cars, electrocuted by power lines, or shot by humans. On average, the lifespan of Red-tailed Hawks in the wild is likely less than 12 years, although some individuals do reach their 20s.

Lack of Hunting Skills: Young hawks must learn to hunt effectively through trial and error, a process that can lead to starvation if they fail to master the necessary skills.

Predation: Juvenile hawks are vulnerable to natural predators like the Great Horned Owl.

Man-Made Hazards: Vehicle Strikes: Collisions with vehicles are a significant threat, especially in areas with urban environments.

Nest Destruction: Early nest destruction can leave young birds unprotected and unable to survive.

Heavy Snow and Cold: Harsh weather conditions, like heavy snow, can make it difficult for young, inexperienced birds to find food and can lead to starvation.

Migration: The challenges of migration, including finding food sources and navigating unfamiliar territory, can also be deadly for young hawks.

Inexperienced Independence: The period after fledging and leaving the nest is a critical and dangerous time, as the young hawks are less attentive to their parents and must rapidly adapt to a life of self-sufficiency.

The smaller the bird, the bigger the attitude. That’s definitely true for one of Pennsylvania’s tiniest owls. The Easter...
10/14/2026

The smaller the bird, the bigger the attitude. That’s definitely true for one of Pennsylvania’s tiniest owls. The Eastern Screech Owl may be small, but it has a big personality. Our Game Warden, Veylukpek, rescued this owl after finding it in a cold swimming pool. The warden brought it to us right away, unsure if it was still alive. When we opened the box, we found the little owl wet and cold. It took several hours to dry and warm it up. After a careful exam, we were relieved to find it had no injuries, just exhaustion. With a few days of fluids, rest, and good meals, the owl soon showed it was ready to go back to the wild.

These owls come in two main colors: gray, which is most common in Pennsylvania, and red. Eastern screech-owls are carnivores. They eat mammals, birds, earthworms, insects, crayfish, tadpoles, frogs, and lizards. They usually fly down from trees to catch their prey, but they rarely hover while hunting. They also help control small mammal populations and can eat more than 1,000 mice in a year!

These little owls are clever and sometimes “play dead” (thanatosis) as a way to protect themselves when they feel threatened or scared. They might stretch out or slump over to look hurt, but they can quickly perk up again. They are small but mighty, and their attitude is impressive. Our photographer managed to capture the expressions, from looking annoyed about a feather out of place to quickly flying off. These owls are truly amazing. If you ever hear a sound like a horse whinnying at night, it’s probably the small but mighty screech owl.

****UPDATE**** BAT RELEASE! When rehabilitation centers collaborate, it is always the animals that benefit. At Raven Rid...
10/13/2026

****UPDATE**** BAT RELEASE! When rehabilitation centers collaborate, it is always the animals that benefit. At Raven Ridge, our motto has always been to prioritize the well-being and best chances of survival for the animals and to do what needs to be done to ensure those chances.

Our center is one of only 13 centers in the state permitted, trained, and experienced in rehabilitating Rabies Vector Species (RVS), such as foxes, skunks, woodchucks, raccoons, coyotes, and bats. We work closely with Pennsylvania Bat Conservation and Rehabilitation, coordinating rescues, stabilization, and transfers of bats when necessary. Bats are often found in critical condition due to animal attacks, dehydration, poisoning, or injuries inflicted by humans. These creatures are frequently misunderstood but play a vital role in the ecosystem and insect control. Therefore, we are dedicated to educating the public about bats and ensuring their survival, just as we do for all our patients.

Recently, we were contacted by the team at Pennsylvania Bat Conservation and Rehabilitation regarding a bat that had been hanging 12 feet up on a porch in downtown Lancaster for the past two days. Being exposed to the elements in one spot for that long constitutes an emergency. A team member with the appropriate equipment was able to rescue the bat, which was found to be severely dehydrated and underweight at just 6 grams for this time of year.

We informed the team at Pa Bat Conservation and Rehabilitation that we had this bat, which appeared different from the other bats we usually admit to our center. After sending photos for confirmation, it was determined that this was a Northern Long-eared bat.

Northern Long-eared bats are critically endangered in North America due to a staggering 97% to 100% population collapse caused by white-nose syndrome. On March 31, 2023, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officially reclassified the Northern Long-eared bat from threatened to endangered under the Endangered Species Act, making it both state and federally endangered.

The female juvenile bat was stabilized at our facility before being transferred to Pa Bat Conservation and Rehabilitation facility. To ensure the well-being of this small, vulnerable bat, one of our volunteers made the hour-long drive to their facility, which specializes in the research and rehabilitation of critically endangered bats. Their team is exceptional, and although this is just one small bat, it is crucial that it receives proper care and is placed with others of its species to enhance its chances of survival.

Studies and information gathered from this bat are vital for understanding what must be done to prevent their extinction, and this bat now has a second chance thanks to several people involved in the rescue, rehab, and release of this critically endangered bat. Thank you, Pa Bat Conservation and Rehabilitation, for all you do for the “sky puppies”.

One advantage of the center's phone system is our ability to receive images of wildlife from finders seeking guidance. ...
10/12/2026

One advantage of the center's phone system is our ability to receive images of wildlife from finders seeking guidance. Recently, Kelly sent us a photo of a raccoon she discovered near her barn, asking whether it was too small to be independent. We carefully examined the image, assessing the raccoon's size by comparing it to the leaves, stones in the barn foundation, and wood chips visible in the photo. The raccoon appeared unusually small for the season.

By mid-October, any raccoon of this size admitted to our center would typically still require formula, which is uncommon so late in the year. To confirm our assessment, we contacted Kelly, who assured us that the raccoon was indeed as small as it appeared and expressed concern about its ability to survive without its mother. When Kelly brought the raccoon to us, we were surprised not only by its late birth but also by its relatively good condition, despite being dehydrated and understandably fearful of humans. As the season concludes, most of the baby wildlife we admitted in the spring have already been released. Fortunately, we had raccoon formula available for the necessary multiple-bottle feedings. When caring for a single juvenile animal, it is essential to collaborate with other centers to find companions of similar size and species, preventing human imprinting and providing comfort during rehabilitation.

We reached out to our friends at West Shore Wildlife Center to inquire if they had a raccoon of comparable size, recognizing the challenge given the time of year. Fortunately, they had a recently weaned raccoon, and we were grateful that our raccoon would now have a companion for growth and development throughout the winter until their release in spring. This year has been particularly unusual, not only due to the high number of admissions but also because of the diversity of animals we have rehabilitated.

Raking leaves isn’t just bad for your lawn—it’s also harmful to the environment. When you leave fallen leaves on your ya...
10/11/2026

Raking leaves isn’t just bad for your lawn—it’s also harmful to the environment. When you leave fallen leaves on your yard, they add important nutrients to the soil, help local wildlife, and keep organic waste out of landfills. In the U.S., yard trimmings and leaves make up about 12% of landfill waste, where they break down without enough oxygen and release methane. Plus, songbirds depend on the insects that spend the winter in leaf piles to feed their chicks. So, you can skip raking and enjoy a free afternoon.

Habitat for Wildlife: Fallen leaves provide a natural habitat for various insects, amphibians, and small mammals during winter months. Raking them up can disrupt these ecosystems and reduce biodiversity in your yard.

Soil Enrichment: When left to decompose, leaves can break down and enrich the soil with valuable organic matter. This improves soil structure, moisture retention, and nutrient content, benefiting your garden or lawn.

Time and Energy Savings: Raking leaves can be a time-consuming and physically demanding task, especially if you have a large yard with many trees. Allowing leaves to naturally decompose can save you both time and energy.

Cost Savings: You can save money on bags or disposal fees associated with collecting and disposing of leaves. Instead, you can use leaves as a free source of mulch or compost for your garden.

Environmental Impact: Burning leaves releases carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution and climate change. Composting or mulching leaves is a more environmentally friendly option.

Erosion Control: A layer of leaves can help protect the soil from erosion, particularly on slopes or hilly areas. They act as a natural barrier against heavy rain and wind.

Aesthetic Appeal: Some people find the natural look of leaves on the ground to be aesthetically pleasing. It can create a cozy and rustic atmosphere in your yard during the fall season.

Fertilization: As leaves decompose, they release nutrients back into the soil, acting as a natural fertilizer for your plants and trees.

We received a call from Cornelia regarding an American Kestrel that had been observed flying inside a very old barn for ...
10/09/2026

We received a call from Cornelia regarding an American Kestrel that had been observed flying inside a very old barn for several days. The barn featured high beams and ceilings, with windows that were inaccessible and could not be opened. Numerous nooks, crannies, and holes in the walls provided hiding places for the Kestrel, but the falcon would not survive much longer without escaping the barn.

The barn, used for storage, was dusty and unsuitable for the Kestrel. Cornelia observed that the falcon was noticeably slower than in previous days and suspected a problem. These rescues are challenging, as it is essential to avoid frightening or injuring the bird while ensuring the safety of the volunteer.
Recognizing the complexity of the situation, we assigned an experienced volunteer. Rita, once again, undertook the rescue, and after several attempts, successfully captured the Kestrel. Upon arrival at our center, the Kestrel was covered in dust and cobwebs, and was both thin and dehydrated. The male Kestrel received fluids, was cleaned, and is now responding to treatment. We are confident that this Kestrel will be released into a safe and suitable environment.

The American Kestrel, North America’s smallest falcon, exhibits remarkable predatory intensity despite its size. It is among the most colorful raptors: males display slate-blue heads and wings contrasted with rusty-red backs and tails, while females exhibit similar reddish tones on their wings, backs, and tails. Kestrels hunt insects and small prey in open areas, often perching on wires or poles or hovering in place by facing into the wind and adjusting their long tails.

Their tetrachromatic vision enables them to perceive ultraviolet light, which is invisible to humans. Rodents such as mice and voles mark their paths with urine and f***s, and because rodent urine reflects ultraviolet light, these trails appear luminous against grass or soil, guiding kestrels directly to their prey. Kestrels frequently hover motionless above fields to scan for these ultraviolet markings before diving to capture their prey with their talons. The American Kestrel is one of three falcon species found in Pennsylvania. The American kestrel is classified as a species of special concern in Pennsylvania, where local populations have dropped significantly—plunging by more than 70% in southeastern regions.

Halloween is almost here, and decorating is fun, but it’s important to remember the wildlife that lives in our neighborh...
10/08/2026

Halloween is almost here, and decorating is fun, but it’s important to remember the wildlife that lives in our neighborhoods. When we put up Halloween decorations, we change the environment for curious animals nearby. We add skeletons to our porches, big spiders to our lawns, and plastic pumpkins to our fences.
One decoration that can be especially dangerous for animals is fake spider webs. These thin strands might seem harmless, but birds, bats, insects, and other small animals can get caught in them. Fall is also a key time for bird migration, so loose webbing in yards can become a hidden danger for birds flying south. Decorations like Indian corn, fresh gourds, and cut-out pumpkins may look festive to us, but they are also natural food for wildlife. Since these decorations are often placed close to our homes, they attract animals and increase the risk of entanglement, especially because many of these animals are active at night. Be thoughtful about where you put your fall and holiday decorations, and consider skipping fake spider webs outside.

This spring, we admitted numerous nestlings and fledglings Great Horned Owls for a variety of reasons, including injurie...
10/06/2026

This spring, we admitted numerous nestlings and fledglings Great Horned Owls for a variety of reasons, including injuries, orphaning, and abandonment. Among them, one nestling stood out after being found abandoned and grounded for an extended period, requiring immediate assistance.

We observed a notable difference in this individual compared to others: its talons were white, rather than the typical black seen in most owls. As the owl matured, it became evident that it not only had uniquely colored talons but also exhibited a lighter overall plumage. Caring for this owl and witnessing its transformation was a remarkable experience for our team. Although releasing such a distinctive owl was difficult, we remain dedicated to providing every animal with the opportunity to return to the wild. The owl was released into optimal habitat, where it is expected to establish a territory and potentially raise offspring.

Great Horned Owls are apex predators with the most diverse diet among North American raptors. Their prey includes a wide range of mammals and birds, such as rabbits, hares, mice, American Coots, voles, moles, shrews, rats, gophers, chipmunks, squirrels, woodchucks, marmots, prairie dogs, bats, skunks, house cats, porcupines, ducks, loons, mergansers, grebes, rails, owls, hawks, crows, ravens, doves, and starlings. They also consume reptiles, insects, fish, invertebrates, and occasionally carrion. While they primarily hunt at night, Great Horned Owls are sometimes active during daylight hours. After locating prey from a perch, they pursue it in flight across various habitats, including woodland edges, meadows, wetlands, and open water. They may also walk along the ground to stalk small prey around vegetation or other obstacles.

Recently, we received a call from a woman attempting to trap a sick cat, but instead she discovered an unexpected animal...
10/05/2026

Recently, we received a call from a woman attempting to trap a sick cat, but instead she discovered an unexpected animal in the trap. She contacted us and sent a photo, asking whether the animal was a sick red fox or perhaps someone's dog. Upon reviewing the photo, we informed her that it was neither; it was a coyote.

In our eleven years of operation, we have only admitted one other coyote, whose injuries from a vehicle collision were so severe that euthanasia was necessary. This particular coyote is suffering from mange, open wounds, abscesses on his legs and abdomen, and pressure sores, all of which are common in foxes and coyotes afflicted with mange. He was so hungry, weak, and sore that he entered the trap in search of food.

Coyotes are highly elusive and intelligent animals, rarely seen by people. As a keystone species, they play a crucial role in maintaining balanced, healthy, and biodiverse ecosystems. Coyotes hunt mice, rats, and rabbits, which reproduce rapidly. By controlling small mammal populations, coyotes help prevent overgrazing and seed damage. Fewer rodents also reduce the risk of diseases such as Lyme disease, which is often transmitted by ticks. As top carnivores in many regions, coyotes regulate populations of mesocarnivores, including skunks, raccoons, foxes, and feral cats. By controlling these smaller predators, coyotes support the survival of ground-nesting birds and other vulnerable species.

Coyotes are an essential part of both rural and urban environments, and their ability to adapt to changing conditions and diverse habitats distinguishes them from other species. This adaptability may also contribute to public fear and misunderstanding. Through their intelligence and resilience, coyotes demonstrate our own potential to adapt and coexist amid rapid ecological and social changes. By fostering greater understanding and appreciation for coyotes and other native carnivores, we can move beyond fear and ignorance.

Coyotes often have a negative reputation, primarily due to a lack of public knowledge about their behavior and ecological importance. The rehabilitation process for this coyote will be lengthy, but our team is dedicated to supporting his recovery from pain, fear, and discomfort. For additional information about these remarkable animals, refer to projectcoyote.org for more interesting information.

We are excited to partner with the Lancaster Science Factory for the second year in a row on our program, Night Owls! T...
10/03/2026

We are excited to partner with the Lancaster Science Factory for the second year in a row on our program, Night Owls! This event is one night only, on Friday, October 9, 2026 from 5:00–8:00 PM.

Experience an evening of science and discovery after dark at the Lancaster Science Factory. Explore the Science Factory, enjoy special owl-themed activities, and learn all about these fascinating nocturnal animals.
We will be hosting special live owl presentations, featuring our animal ambassadors Horus the Barred Owl and Khonsu the Barn Owl. Hear their stories and learn what makes owls fierce nocturnal predators!

Throughout the evening, enjoy additional owl-themed activities included with your admission. Discover what an owl has been eating by examining real owl pellets and uncovering the clues inside. Get hands-on with real owl specimens and discover how wings, feet, and skulls help owls survive and thrive.
Plus, explore all of your favorite Lancaster Science Factory exhibits throughout the evening.

General admission is required to attend Night Owls. Owl presentation tickets are sold separately. Space is limited, so advance tickets are recommended. We hope to see you there!

Address

P. O. Box 38
Washington Boro, PA
17582

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4pm
Tuesday 8am - 4pm
Wednesday 8am - 4pm
Thursday 8am - 4pm
Friday 8am - 4pm
Saturday 8am - 4pm
Sunday 8am - 4pm

Telephone

+17178082652

Website

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