The Hornby Eagle Group Projects Society recently honoured MARS founder Maj Birch by presenting her with two pieces of wildlife art.
The artwork was donated by wildlife artist Mary Jane Harman. In addition to the artwork, the society made a donation to MARS (Mountainaire Avian Rescue Society) to help continue its important work of helping wildlife.
The money was raised by the society through the generosity of its OurNatureZone forum members, online chat room participants, and Facebook friends.
The society, which broadcast the Hornby Island Eagle Cam for the prior two years, has seen firsthand the wonderful work done by Birch and her dedicated volunteers.
When the Hornby eaglet, Phoenix, succumbed to aspergillosis in July of 2010, MARS was there to transport her, examine her, and ensure that a cause of death was found.
Later that summer, society members on Hornby Island were involved in the rescue of three eaglets in need of MARS’ tender care. That led to the beginning of the Hornby Eagle Advanced Response Team.
Hornby eaglets “Decker” (named for the deck where he was found) and “Niner” and “Brig” (named for the nests where they hatched), were rescued and delivered to MARS.
The eaglets were emaciated, yet were nursed to health by MARS and later by the North Island Wildlife Recovery Association.
Many tears of joy were shed when the eaglets were released to live their lives as they should, in the wild.
Last season, a Hornby eaglet dubbed “Shredder Helliwell” was rescued by the response team and sent to MARS.
Shredder was found in Helliwell Provincial Park and, when in rehab, had a habit of shredding things. Though severely emaciated, Shredder recovered and became another success story when she was released in November at Little Qualicum River.
The society is grateful for all that MARS has done for wildlife. Both the residents and wildlife of the Comox Valley and beyond are lucky to have Birch diligently helping wildlife at the centre in Merville.
Information about MARS may be found at www.wingtips.org
Online donations can be made through www.CanadaHelps.org
Information about the society may be found at www.hornbyeagles.com and www.ournaturezone.com