SPCA Monterey County takes in record numbers of injured animals.

Like humans, many young animals desire independence and want to leave the nest, perhaps before they are ready.

The number of fledgling seagulls that can be found as roadkill recently, before they were able to fly, is one example.

But sometimes it’s not by choice. Ciera Duits-Cavanaugh, manager of the SPCA Monterey County Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, says her team has taken in many baby birds who have fallen out of their nests. “It seems like this season the parents just chose rooftops that were not the greatest to nest on,” she says.

It happens some years. There are also years when high numbers of opossums and other mammals end up in trouble and in need of assistance. Usually, these peaks don’t converge. But, Duits-Cavanaugh says, “this season, all those peaks are having the same year.”

The SPCA’s rescue center in recent weeks continues to break its record for the number of wildlife in its care for any one day. On Aug. 1, that number stood at 220; a little more than half are birds.

“It’s pretty nonstop” for the team of eight – plus volunteers – from 7am into the early evening, she says. The birds are on 30-minute timers for care, whether that be feeding, cleaning out their enclosures, weighing them and more.

That’s in addition to the rest of the animals, which may require medications, tending to their wounds and other care, along with managing the front of the house duties including phone calls and walk-ins.

Those who see an injured animal or find one acting unusual are encouraged to call the SPCA at (831) 264-5427. “We appreciate the public’s assistance in helping out with these animals, getting them the help if they need it,” Duits-Cavanaugh says.