Since joining the Wildlife Medical Clinic at the University of Illinois I have learned a lot about common species found in Illinois, anatomical differences in these species, and medical efforts to help them heal. It has been an amazing opportunity to learn more about wildlife but prompted me to learn about who else is helping […]
Whether you’re an avid bird-watcher or a person who avoids parking under trees so that you don’t have to wash the droppings off your car for the nth time this week, you’re bound to have noticed that bird populations seem to ebb and flow with the seasons. You might be wondering, “where do they go?” […]
Chytridiomycosis is a fungal disease cause by Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis and Batrachochytriu salamadrivorans. This disease infects amphibians, effecting frogs the most. It has led to the decline and extinction of amphibian species across the globe. Scientists have been searching for ways to combat this disease. This article outlines two novel treatments of this disease. Saunas for […]
In the fall of 2025, the Wildlife Medical Clinic (WMC) ambassador program grew with the addition of a red-tailed hawk, a Virginia opossum, and an Eastern Screech Owl. While you may have seen short clips of these ambassadors on CiLiving and through our social media platforms, we would like to formally introduce our newest trio […]
Check out this recent article in Outdoor Illinois Journal, written by our program coordinator, Sydney Oliveira. It provides basic information on what to look for to determine whether an animal needs help or not. It also provides resources for finding a licensed Illinois wildlife rehabilitator near you and provides some additional information on supporting wildlife.
Invasive species are estimated to cost North America $26 billion dollars per year since 2010. From plants like common teasel and buckthorn to animals like the Burmese python and lionfish, the damage that has been caused to our native ecosystems is extreme. While steps have been taken to mitigate these damages and prevent further spread […]
Secondary Rodenticide Poisoning in Raptors It is a quick fix many homeowners use when facing a rodent problem: setting out a few bait stations filled with tasty poison. What most don’t realize is that these poisons do not work instantly. The target mouse or rat may live for days after consuming the bait, becoming slow, […]
Follow WMC Program Coordinator, Sydney Oliveira, to learn about pollinators, why they are so important, and what you can do to help support them.
Follow WMC Program Coordinator, Sydney Oliveira, on CiLiving and see if you can answer a few trivia questions regarding common misconceptions about orphaned wildlife.
Bats of Illinois Illinois is home to a confirmed 13 different bat species who are all insectivores. Despite their feared reputation for carrying diseases such as rabies and feeding on blood, these bats are crucial ecologically and economically as they provide natural pest control, reducing insect pests for crops and saving farmers billions in pesticide […]