MWR Minute – August 2025
August brought both reflection and renewal for MWR. We said goodbye to Rufous, our beloved Eastern Screech Owl ambassador, who touched countless lives since joining us in 2014. Through school visits, library programs, and community events, Rufous helped thousands of children and adults discover the wonder of owls and the importance of protecting wildlife. His quiet presence sparked curiosity, compassion, and respect for nature in ways that words alone could not. While he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on in every person he inspired. 💙 Learn more here
Even as we grieve this loss, our work continues. In August we admitted our 899th patient of the year, each representing another chance to heal, release, and protect Mississippi’s native wildlife.
With fall just around the corner, we are looking forward to cooler weather, engaging education programs, and community events that bring people closer to nature. We encourage you to embrace the season by exploring the ARK trails at 7001 W Commerce Rd in Hernando—a place to connect with the land, enjoy the crisp air, and reflect on the beauty we are all working to preserve.
🌿 Nature Center Update
Progress continues at the Valery E. Smith Nature Center:
· We’re close to outfitting the enclosures in the Raptor Garden with species-appropriate perches and “furniture.” Our goal is to move the raptors into their new homes this fall so they can settle in before the grand opening.
· The Secret Garden is thriving and has become an important refueling stop for migrating butterflies. Host plants are supporting the next generation of pollinators, including Gulf Fritillaries and Cloudless Sulphurs.
🎥 See the latest updates HERE
🌸 Patricia Windland Memorial
MWR is deeply honored to dedicate the rain barrel in our Secret Garden native plant garden to the memory of Patricia Windland, made possible through the generosity of her sister Diana Wilkerson, family, and friends. Learn more
🏥 Wildlife Hospital – By the Numbers
In August, MWR admitted 79 new patients in need of care, including:
🕊️ 33 bird species – including songbirds, raptors, waterbirds, and nestlings
🐢 1 reptile species – including box turtles, water turtles, and young snakes
📖 Check out this video of a recent Mississippi Kite release
If you come across a wild bird or reptile in distress, don’t try to care for it yourself.
📞 Call our wildlife hotline: 662-612-6455 or check out this map for a wildlife rehabber close to you:
💙 Donor Thank You
We are deeply grateful to everyone who supported MWR in August whether through monthly giving or one-time donations.
🌟 Monthly Donors
A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated monthly supporters whose commitment sustains daily wildlife care:
Beau Edgington • Kate Friedman • Nancy Orton • Rebecca Carter • Mykl Wallrath • Karen S. Brown • Yvonne McCommon • David Simonton • Christina Milbourne • Bill & Tracy Hill • Chrystie Teague • Carol A. Decker • John Gullett • Nicholas Richards • Larry Green • Irene McClain • Rebecca Terry • Josephine Falcone • Cheryl Hays • Cassandra R. Truan • Melinda Turley • Natalie Rodgers • Rebecca S. Pepper • Sharon Runkel • Natalie Bright • Suzan Stewart • Kellye Makamson • Leah Hasselle
💻 Online Donors
We are also grateful to the following individuals who gave online in August:
Angela G. Eckburg • Nicholas Russell Winston • Jose Alejandro • Sandy Hudson • Michael Dakota Rushing • Christy Richmond • Lorrie A. Bay • Patricia P. Smith • Paula J. Hunter • David Pratt • Nita Hutcheson • Clay Templeton • Ruel D. Arrington • William Pratt • Ben Nowell • Diana Wilkerson • Susanne P. Dye • Elizabeth Cornett • Rhonda Solberg • Sherry Sigler
Each gift makes a difference, and together you make our mission possible—thank you!
💙 Want to support MWR? Donate today
🛒 Prefer to donate supplies? Shop our Amazon Wishlist to send essential items directly to our center.
📚 Education & Outreach: Connecting with Communities
🌳 Mephit Fur Meet
MWR was honored to be one of the supported charities at this event again this year! 💙
We had a wonderful time meeting so many enthusiastic attendees who stopped by our display. Thank you for your support—we’re already looking forward to next year! See more
Want to bring MWR to your school, group, or event?
➡️ Learn about our education programs
📅 Upcoming Events
🌺 North Mississippi Hummingbird Festival
📍 September 13 | Snowden Grove, Southaven MS
This long-loved community event is BACK! Celebrate the beauty of hummingbirds and learn how to support them in your own backyard. More details HERE
🕊️ Craft for Conservation: DIY Leaf Bird Bath workshop
📍 September 27 | 10a-12p – The ARK Trails, $35/ person
Create a unique, nature-inspired bird bath for your outdoor space. Includes all materials. Bring a favorite leaf to personalize your design. Space is limited – registration required. Register HERE
🎃 6th Annual Trunk or Treat Festival
📍 Saturday, October 18 – Dub Patton Recreation Area at Arkabutla Lake
Our free, family-friendly Halloween celebration returns! Costumes, candy, games, and wild surprises. See the official announcement
🎄 Dickens of a Christmas
📍 Saturday, November 22 | Historic Hernando Square
We’ll be joining this charming holiday event in our finest period costumes! Come celebrate the season with us and support this cherished community tradition. Learn more
Stay Connected
📍 Visit mwr.ms
💬 Follow us on Facebook for wildlife stories, tips, and event updates.
Thank you for being part of the MWR family. Together, we’re protecting Mississippi’s wild future. 🦉💚