I f you spot a baby bird fallen from its nest or an owl tangled in fishing net, Think Wild is the organization to call. Based in Bend, this nonprofit provides critical care for injured and orphaned wildlife across Central and Eastern Oregon, helping animals get safely released back into the wild.

According to its 2023 annual report , Think Wild has experienced tremendous growth, with more people calling its hotline, and around 700 of wildlife patients arriving for care per year.

Think Wild's mission , as stated on its website, is "to inspire the high desert community to care for and protect native wildlife through education, conservation, rescue, and rehabilitation."

Founded in 2016 as a small wildlife rehab center, Think Wild has since expanded into a full-fledged wildlife hospital, hotline service, educational program and habitat conservation organization. With the guidance of Executive Director Sally Compton and Director of Wildlife Rehabilitation Pauline Hice, the Think Wild Conservation Center and Hospital opened in 2020, enabling the organization to provide top-quality care for native wildlife.

"It's inspiring to see how many people care about animals and want to help," says Molly Honea, Think Wild's development and communications coordinator. "People across Oregon, regardless of background or beliefs, reach out because they genuinely care about wildlife. They want to do their part and come to us for help."

Most animals arrive at Think Wild through hotline calls, with the team assessing the best treatment for each patient. The process begins with an intake exam to determine if x-rays, medications, physical therapy or time in a customized enclosure are needed. Before any animal is released, it must pass a "wildness test" to ensure it's ready for life back in its habitat.

One recent rescue involved a Great Horned Owl caught in power lines, entangled in fishing line with a hook embedded in its wing. Thanks to a community member's quick action, most of the fishing line was removed and the owl was put in a quiet, warm, location overnight before being brought to Think Wild for care. Under the team's watch, the owl received medications and rehabilitation including physical therapy to restore full extension as their wounds healed. Think Wild is cautiously optimistic the owl can recover and eventually return to the wild.

Think Wild is always open to volunteers and offers flexible ways to get involved. Volunteers can work hands-on in the hospital, assist with habitat restoration, staff events, join educational programs or help with projects like building nest boxes. "Volunteers often play a meaningful role in each animal's story, from rescuing an animal to helping with its daily care," Honea explains. "Even those here just one day a week are part of the animal's journey."

Operating largely on community support and grants , Think Wild faces challenges around funding. "It can be challenging to feel confident about funding when it's not guaranteed or consistent," Honea says. Despite these obstacles, the organization remains committed to caring for the region's wildlife with the help of local support.

Community members can help Think Wild through donations, business sponsorships, or volunteering. The organization also hosts trivia and bingo nights, offering fun ways to support local wildlife.

"People reach out to us because they care about an animal, and we exist because we care too," Honea says. "Together, we work to make the outcome as positive as possible for each animal."

More information about getting involved is available on Think Wild's website. With ongoing support, Think Wild will continue to provide Central Oregon's wildlife with the help it needs.