Panhandle Wildlife Rescue (PWR) has opened the doors to its new full-scale rehabilitation center and wildlife hospital in Freeport, a major milestone for the nonprofit that serves 11 counties from Navarre to Tallahassee.
Founded in 2024 by Shelby Robinson, Jim Johnson and Raven Smith, PWR provides critical, often life-saving care to Florida’s native wildlife—admitting between 1,000 and 2,000 sick, injured or orphaned animals each year. The new facility, made possible by a generous donation from Ryan Jumonville and family, significantly expands its ability to treat and release animals in one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the country.
Florida’s Panhandle is home to hundreds of native species, and many of them end up at PWR after encounters with cars, urban development or human intervention. One current patient, a bald eagle rescued off a Bay County highway, suffered complex wing fractures after likely being struck by a car. After evaluation and surgery by PWR’s Dr. Phil Blumer, the eagle now undergoes daily physical therapy as he works toward recovery. The rescue was a coordinated effort with Wildlife Harbor (WH) in Panama City Beach, a close partner in the region.
But, it’s not just the dramatic adult rescues that require intense care—often, it’s the orphans who stay the longest. PWR currently houses 11 fledglings, including owls and hawks. While they prioritize reuniting babies with their mothers, it’s not always possible. Predators, injury or human reluctance to renest on their property can complicate efforts. Still, PWR successfully renests about 70% of downed raptors.
For the remaining 30%, the care is extensive. These young birds must be taught to self-feed, fly and hunt, all while maintaining a healthy fear of humans. Weekly medical checks, enrichment activities, and simulated hunting are all part of their rehabilitation plan.
PWR also raises awareness about preventable threats like rodenticide poisoning. About 25% of admitted adult raptors suffer from secondary poisoning after eating contaminated prey. “Most people don’t think of the ripple effects when using poisons, but it causes immense suffering in our native wildlife,” said Robinson.
The nonprofit hopes to raise funds to complete a 100-foot flight cage and additional enclosures to accommodate its growing caseload. Donations also help cover the cost of food, medical supplies, and formula, especially during baby season, when PWR can field more than 100 calls daily.
Staffed by just three people and supported by Wildlife Harbor’s Cindy Levine, the team covers a region once served by eight full-time employees. They rely heavily on volunteers—whether for rescues, nursery care or medical support. “Compassion and kindness go a long way,” Robinson said.
Robinson, a wildlife rehab specialist with 15 years of experience, leads the organization alongside Johnson, PWR’s lead rescue tech, and Smith, a nursery expert known for her dedication to orphaned wildlife. Together, they’ve cared for over 200 different species—from red-tailed hawks and snapping turtles to squirrels and raccoons.
Support also comes from community veterinary clinics like Emergency Veterinary Clinic in Niceville and Destin, which help with intakes and imaging needs while PWR works toward funding its own medical clinic.
As PWR looks ahead, it continues to educate the public through its “Respect the Locals” campaign, encouraging safer coexistence between humans and wildlife. “Nothing feeds the soul more than watching a once-broken creature return to the wild,” says co-founder Raven Smith.
Panhandle Wildlife Rescue receives no federal, state or local funding. All care, rescues and the 24/7 wildlife hotline are funded entirely by community donations.
To donate, volunteer, or learn more, visit www.panhandlewildliferescue.com.
Facility address: 5951 Highway 20, Freeport
Alternate intake: 256 Miley Road, Freeport
Wildlife Emergency Hotline: (850) 889-1104
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