Back to the Wild

CASTALIA, Ohio (WUPW) - Over the past two decades, Mona Rutger has rescued almost 40,000 animals. 25,000 of those have been released back into the wild. But she says her rehab center is both a labor of love and a necessity.

It's not exactly, "Lions and Tigers and Bears" But, Bald Eagles and Owls and Bobcats? Yes. The "Back to the Wild rehabilitation and education center' located in Castalia- was started back in 1990- by animal lover- Mona Rutger.

"90% of the animals are human related injuries. You know, fishing line, plastic rings, twine and netting and oil. So we found out immediately it was a huge opportunity to educate the public about the natural world and how we all need to be responsible caretakers and stewards of the environment." Mona Rutger of, 'Back To The Wild'

2,500 injured or orphaned animals are taken in and cared for by Mona and her staff, every year. From Bald Eagles learning to fly again before heading "Back into the wild" - to other animals that are permanent residents, Mona says the center serves as a force that keeps the food chain intact.

"If a hawk eats a snake who ate a frog who ate poisoned insects- every link in that chain is affected. If you break a link in a chain that's around your neck- the whole chain falls apart. We are on the top of that food chain, so it's very important." Says Mona.

Federal and Local permits are required for the center, but no federal or local funding are provided. Back to the Wild is a non-profit and relies solely on donations, and at times- Mona's retirement fund. But, she wouldn't have it any other way.

Mona says, "We are under very strict regulations, inspected and monitored but we need the support of the community. We need corporate help. I mean, this center is costing us between $250,000 to $300,000 a year and that's all on the private donations. But, it is definitely a labor of love."