Scores of wild animals rescued from Houston-area flood waters
HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Wild animals -- including many baby animals -- are pouring into the Wildlife Center of Texas as floodwaters overtake much of the Houston area. More than 150 animals arrived at the center since Monday, including opossums, rabbits, turtles, birds and squirrels, many in critical condition, according to the center.
PHOTOS: Baby animals rescued from historic Houston floods
Many animals were found clinging to debris and struggling to stay alive as they floated down torrents of flood water, according to the center.
Sharon Schmalz, executive director of the Wildlife Center of Texas, said, "When safe to do so, check the area for animals like baby birds, squirrels or rabbits who have been blown out of their nests or flooded out their dens."
High water usually brings floating mounds of fire ants that attack downed baby animals. Schmalz also warns drivers to watch for turtles on the roadways. If impacted wildlife is found, the center advises that people wrap it in warm soft rags, place in a box and bring it to the Wildlife Center of Texas at 7007 Katy Road, Houston, TX 77024 when it is safe to travel. Also, they advise not to attempt feeding the animal any food or water.
The Wildlife Center of Texas is a subsidiary of the Houston SPCA. The center is open seven days a week to care for any injured, ill or orphaned wildlife. They are open from Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday/Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to accept wild animals in need, including victims from the recent storms. They are located at 7007 Katy Road and their phone number is 713-861-9453 (WILD).
The Wildlife Center of Texas needs donations of dry cat and dog food, grocery store gift cards for fresh vegetables or items from their Amazon wish list.
