Nature center staffer achieves important milestone

Schierman examines an injured Canada Goose

Alexis Schierman of Lake Erie Nature & Science Center in Bay Village is the second rehabilitator at the Center and in the state of Ohio to earn a Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator distinction from the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council. Schierman joined the nonprofit Center in 2012, working with Director of Wildlife Rehabilitation Amy LeMonds, who earned the certification in 2011.

“The fact that Alexis chose to work toward this certification within her first year in the profession speaks volumes about her dedication and her promise in the years to come,” said LeMonds. “She is an ideal example of the high standard of excellence Lake Erie Nature & Science Center strives to provide to our community, as the recent renovation of our onsite Wildlife Rehabilitation facility will attest.” In 2012, the nonprofit center completed a campaign to create more space for animal examination and care, greater storage and access to technology and improved lighting and ventilation.

Wildlife rehabilitation is an always-developing field, and the requirements for becoming a practitioner vary widely. The IWRC certification shows that the rehabber possesses the knowledge and skill to provide the highest quality care. To encourage the rehabber’s continuing education, skill and competence, certification renewal is required every two years.

“I am very proud of Alexis for everything she has learned over this past year,” said LeMonds. “It is a challenging exam for those who wish to be seen as leaders in our field.”

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, located at 28728 Wolf Rd. in Bay Village within the Huntington Reservation of the Cleveland Metroparks, has been performing wildlife rehabilitation at no charge to the public since its inception in 1945. Wildlife rehabilitation specialists are available to answer questions from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily by calling 440-871-2900. After hours questions can be left on the 24-hour voice mail or may be answered by visiting the Wildlife Frequently Asked Questions page at www.lensc.org.   

 

Kathleen Shields

Kathleen Shields is Communication Specialist at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center

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Volume 5, Issue 5, Posted 9:57 AM, 03.05.2013