SBWF 2025 IMPACT REPORT
A Growing Impact in Wildlife Rehabilitation
Our third season reiterated the growing demand for our services. We provided care for wildlife representing 13 different species, with intakes spanning 16 counties across Northern Michigan and transfers from additional partner regions. Supported by our dedicated staff and an incredible network of volunteers, we helped 167 animals through hands-on rehabilitation, referrals, or transfers to specialized facilities—giving each a greater chance at recovery and return to the wild.
Expanding Conservation Efforts
Beyond rehabilitation, Sleeping Bear Wildlife Fund continues to strengthen its commitment to habitat and wildlife conservation. In 2025, we expanded our ongoing trail camera and bluebird monitoring programs, helping to build a clearer picture of local wildlife populations and ecosystem health. These initiatives play a critical role in informing conservation strategies and fostering long-term stewardship of the region’s natural resources.
Investing in the Future of Conservation
In our third year of offering our internship program, we were proud to work with two outstanding interns from McGill University and Kalamazoo College. Both gained hands-on experience in animal care, data management, education, and research. This program continues to provide meaningful professional development opportunities while advancing our mission to cultivate the next generation of wildlife conservationists.
We are incredibly grateful for the support of our community, partners, and volunteers who make this work possible. Explore our 2025 Impact Report to see how, together, we are making a difference.
Click through the Report
VIEW PREVIOUS YEARS
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A Growing Impact in Wildlife Rehabilitation
Our second season was a busy one, with 139 animals from 10 different species receiving care through rehabilitation, referrals, or transfers to specialized centers. Our dedicated team and network of volunteers worked tirelessly to provide lifesaving treatment across 11 counties, ensuring injured and orphaned wildlife had the best chance at recovery and release.Expanding Conservation Efforts
Beyond rehabilitation, Sleeping Bear Wildlife Fund is committed to preserving and restoring the natural habitats of Michigan’s northern lower peninsula. This year, we took a significant step forward in our conservation mission by launching two new initiatives focused on research and habitat restoration. These programs are designed to deepen our understanding of local wildlife populations and drive targeted efforts to help them thrive.Investing in the Future of Conservation
In 2024, we proudly launched our internship program, welcoming two dedicated interns who gained hands-on experience in wildlife care, data collection, education, and research. Each intern earned college credit while actively contributing to our mission. By fostering the next generation of conservationists, we are building a stronger foundation for the protection of Michigan’s wildlife for years to come.We are incredibly grateful for the support of our community, partners, and volunteers who make this work possible. Explore our 2024 Impact Report to see how together, we are making a difference!
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Take a look at our first two years of impact by exploring our 2022/2023 Impact Report.
Our first season was a busy one with a lot of patients. We took in 23 different species from Antrim, Benzie, Emmett, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Montcalm, Newaygo, Osceola and Wexford Counties. With our dedicated team and network, we were able to assist 142 animals, whether through rehabilitation, transfer to additional services, or through humane treatment.
WAYS YOU CAN MAKE AN IMPACT
Your support helps turn compassion into action for Northern Michigan’s wildlife. Whether you give, shop from our wishlists, or volunteer your time, every act of generosity helps provide care, resources, and a safer future for the animals who need us most. Together, we can protect what is wild, restore what is vulnerable, and create a lasting impact for the land and wildlife we love.
