PROTECTING SWFL WILDLIFE

Expanded von Arx Wildlife Hospital opens at Conservancy

Expanded von Arx Wildlife Hospital opens at Conservancy

More of us, more troubles for them. The von Arx Wildlife Hospital has expanded at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, which started in 1964. New structures include rehab facilities to care for sick, injured and orphaned creatures such as otters, enlarged shorebird and small mammal recovery areas, improved water, power and caregiver access, more maintenance and storage space.

The Sapakie Wildlife Exhibits instruct us on the reasons why animals are admitted to the von Arx Wildlife Hospital, the types of medical care they receive, and ways we can help prevent wildlife injuries. In addition, the exhibit has a child play area, and the new von Arx Wildlife Viewing Pavilion allows you to visit three ambassadors―an owl, hawk and eagle unable to survive on their own due to injuries.

The $2.3 million expansion by Stevens Construction of Fort Myers began with a $500,000 leadership gift from Dolph and Sharon von Arx. The Conservancy earned a competitive $500,000 grant from state agencies.

Conservancy of Southwest Florida and its Nature Center are in Naples at 1495 Smith Preserve Way. Details are at 239-262-0304, conservancy.org.

The $2.3 million expansion began with a $500,000 gift from Dolph and Sharon von Arx.