From the Desk of Edward  E. Clark, Jr., President and Co-Founder

The Wildlife Center of Virginia

Dear NESTIs:

It has now been one year since we first admitted and began to care for the unfortunate eaglet from the Norfolk Botanical Garden.  While the case has been challenging and often times frustrating, it has also been unique in several ways.  Most people who have followed this case over the last twelve months know about the medical issues with which we have struggled, but that is not what made this case such a wonder.  For us here at the Wildlife Center, what has been the most amazing aspect of this case is that this little eagle was the only one of our more than 52,000 patients over the last 26 years to come with its own fan club!!  While every difficult case brings with it a certain amount of pressure, having literally tens of thousands of people looking over our shoulders and following the developments in this case on a minute-by-minute basis has been a whole new experience.  

As with any case, we have done our best, and we continue to do so.  We have tried to be candid and honest with all of our reports, even when things have not gone well. 

The generosity, understanding, and loyalty shown to this little bird by the NESTIs, and all the others who have been so committed and invested in this one small creature, have taught us a great deal, and sustained us as we have continued to fight the uphill battle to restore this eagle to health.

While we are still unsure if the little eagle will ever be able to enjoy the life in the wild to which he was entitled, he has already served his species and all wildlife well by being an ambassador for all creatures who need human help to survive.  He has introduced us to many new friends and supporters, and has helped introduce many people around the world to the work of the Wildlife Center of Virginia.  In many ways, the case of this little eagle is a sad one, but we remain thankful for all the good that has been done in his name.

With best wishes and gratitude,

Ed