Drought's Impact Hitting Sacramento Wildlife Hard, Despite Rain

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — The Wildlife Care Association in Sacramento County says despite recent rain, the drought has severely impacted the region's wildlife.

Program manager Anysia Avila says there's no shortage of our region's ailing furry and feathery friends. People drop off thousands of sick, orphaned and injured animals every year.

"It can be anything from birds to animals," she said.

Because of the drought, the population of unhealthy wildlife is growing, and they need volunteers to keep up with demand. The association can easily keep a couple of hundred volunteers busy.

"We need about 30 volunteers a day, and that's just in the nursery," she said.

The nonprofit organization, around since the 1970s, is funded by donations and compassion.

Leigh Medina is one of many faithful volunteers donating her time. There are two things she loves about this place.

"I enjoy feeding and caregiving," she said.

The prerequisites to volunteer are simple.

"We just want somebody who's passionate about animals and willing to learn how to take care of them. Honestly, that's all we're looking for is passionate people," Avila said.