The Intersection of Education and Wildlife Care at Mississippi Wildlife Rehabilitation

In this episode of the cityCURRENT Show, host Andrew Bartolotta is joined by Mykl Wallrath, Executive Director, and Donnie Chambliss, Board Member of Mississippi Wildlife Rehabilitation, Inc. (MWR).  With nearly 30 years of experience, MWR is a cornerstone in the wildlife rehabilitation, conservation, and education sectors in Northwest Mississippi. In 2024, MWR treated 775 wildlife patients and reached over 20,000 individuals through various educational initiatives.  Join us as we delve into MWR's impactful work, the exciting opening of the Valery E. Smith Nature Center later this year, and the upcoming Virginia Trails in Senatobia, Mississippi.  The Valery E. Smith Nature Center is a visionary project by Mississippi Wildlife Rehabilitation, Inc. (MWR) that symbolizes a significant leap forward in wildlife conservation and public education. Named in honor of MWR's founder, the center is set to become a hub for wildlife enthusiasts and the general public, providing immersive experiences in nature conservation. The center will feature an array of educational and rehabilitative facilities, including a Raptor Garden, where visitors can observe birds of prey in their enclosures, and an Interpretive Center, designed to educate guests about local wildlife and the ecosystem. Additionally, the nature center will host a variety of live animal exhibits, including a large aquatic turtle display and an enclosure for Cornelius the corn snake. The outdoor area will boast a "Secret Garden" – a serene space planted with native fruiting and flowering plants that attract local birds and pollinators, alongside an outdoor box turtle habitat. This enriching environment will not only serve as a living classroom for visitors but also exemplify sustainable practices that support local wildlife, making the Valery E. Smith Nature Center a cornerstone in regional conservation efforts. Learn about how MWR is not only rehabilitating wildlife but also inspiring the next generation through their innovative educational programs and community partnerships. Learn more: https://www.mswildliferehab.org/