Carolina Waterfowl Rescue

Release Day!

After time in rehab, this turtle was cleared for release and returned safely to its natural habitat.

Every release is a reminder of what’s possible when care, patience, and support come together—giving wildlife a second chance at life where they belong. 💙

Thank you to everyone who helps make moments like this happen.

🇺🇸 Wishing everyone a happy, safe, and enjoyable Fourth of July weekend!

We know many of you will be celebrating with family, friends, cookouts, and fireworks. As you celebrate, we ask that you also keep wildlife and domestic animals in your thoughts.
Many of you remember Zip, the donkey who was spooked by fireworks last year. In a panic, he ran away from home and became trapped in deep mud. Thankfully, he was rescued, but his story is a reminder that fireworks don't just frighten wildlife—they can send pets and livestock into dangerous situations as well.

Every year, July 5th is one of our busiest days at Carolina Waterfowl Rescue. Fireworks can cause birds to abandon nests, fly into buildings or power lines, become separated from their young, or end up injured and exhausted. We also receive calls about displaced wildlife, escaped livestock, and lost pets.

Tomorrow morning, if you're out for a walk or heading to work, please keep an eye out for animals that may need help. If you find a bird that appears stunned or injured, or see any wild animal in distress, please call our Wildlife Hotline at (704) 286-6330 before attempting to intervene. Our team can help determine the best course of action.

If you have pets or livestock, keep them safely secured tonight, and make sure ID tags and microchip information are current in case they become frightened.

A little extra awareness can save a life.

From all of us at Carolina Waterfowl Rescue, thank you for caring about the animals who share our community. Have a wonderful, safe, and compassionate Fourth of July!