... Refuge Centre for the Protection of Wildlife Species in Sachsenhagen / Germany

The Refuge Centre for the Protection of Wildlife Species in Sachsenhagen, about 40 km west of Hannover (Germany) is one of the biggest of its kind in Europe. It is situated on a former military complex which provides plenty of space to house wild native and/or exotic animals. The large area consists of meadows and woods with old deserted ammunition bunkers along with some workshop and office buildings. It is gradually being remodelled to create shelters, appropriate for each species.The centre does not only take in native species, but also often illegally imported exotics which have been confiscated by the authorities.Approximately 1,500 animals per year are being taken care of and treated as needed. Eleven employees are involved in the organisation of the daily work. DVM Florian Brandes ishead of the centre and at the same time responsible for all veterinary aspects.

Main emphasis
The major part of the work (i.e. about 60%) is dedicated to providing temporary shelter to native birds and other animals. Once their health condition has been checked and restored they are being released into their natural habitat. Another large group of animals kept in the centre consists of reptiles and psittacines. Unfortunately, this group is the one growing most rapidly, due to the enormous popularity of exotics in private collections.

Veterinary care
Simple and basic veterinary treatment is done directly at the centre‘s veterinary station. In case a ”patient” requires more than basic and routine treatment it can be done in cooperation with the Clinic for Birds and Small Animals at the Hannover University for Veterinary Science. The postoperative care is done at the refuge centre.

Projects
There are many educational programs for people interested in wildlife, with a focus on young people. There are regular courses about wildlife and exotics for policemen, small animal practitioners or veterinary assistants. The institute is involved in some breeding projects of endangered species.
Many cooperations with scientists, who have a keen interest in native species have been established, due to the enormous mass of native wild animals that are housed in Sachsenhagen.