On November 13-16, 2025, the New York State Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (NYSWRC) held its annual conference in Corning, New York. NYSWRC is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting professionalism in wildlife rehabilitation by providing educational and technical support to licensed wildlife rehabilitators in New York. The organization works to formulate regulations, disseminate educational materials, and promote conservation efforts for New York's wildlife.
Ravensbeard was well represented with a contingent of six people (including Ellen & Scott Kalish, Jessica Solomon, Melissa Iori, Alisa Kitamura) attending this event along with two past volunteers. Ravensbeard has encouraged and supported local interest in wildlife rehabilitation and continues to widen its circle of influence in our area.
Over a three-day period, lectures, specialty sessions, and labs are conducted regarding a wide range of wildlife topics including raptor re-nesting / rehab, orphan squirrels 101, treating rodenticide poisoning, lead toxicity, aquatic turtle care / rehab, infectious diseases of wildlife, avian flu update, avian physical therapy, mange, fluid therapy, tube-feeding, pain management, tips & tricks, and compassion fatigue to name a few. Taught by veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and seasoned rehabilitators, these sessions offer the best education in wildlife rehabilitation that you can get anywhere.
This year’s keynote speaker was Brad Timm, Ph.D., Founder and Executive Director of the Northeast Wildlife Team. Brad Timm is a wildlife ecologist with over 20 years of wildlife research experience in the northeastern U.S. Much of his research has focused on the ecology and conservation of amphibians and reptiles.
In 2024, Brad founded and launched the Northeast Wildlife Team, an organization focused on educating the public about the wildlife of the northeastern U.S., and educating and empowering people to take simple actions around their homes and communities to help wildlife. Brad is the author of the book "Wildlife Out Your Window" (2024), an accessible guide containing a page of interesting facts for common wildlife species of the Northeast, and ways that people can help these animals. He is also the author of an upcoming book “America Is Wild!” (releasing in March 2026), an illustrated guide to native animals and plants of North America. The keynote address was titled, “From Awe to Action: Fascinating Wildlife Facts & How to Help Them”
Next year’s conference is already being planned. Check out their website for any updates.