Image Source: Australia Zoo: Wildlife Warriors Worldwide
My dad never stopped learning about reptiles; like what was the best way to catch a croc, and how to care for all animals, and I guess I will never stop learning about animals as well. – Robert Irwin (Steve Irwin Wildlife Warriors).
Started by Steve in 2002, it was originally known as the Steve Irwin Conservation Foundation. The aim of the organisation was to educate the public in the protection of injured, threatened or endangered wildlife. Through biological research, Wildlife Warriors want to protect and enhance the natural environment of wildlife, and at the same time provide information and education to raise awareness of wildlife issues.
Located within the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital that takes up 1,300 square-metre, its facilities is able to care for over 10,000 animals per year. Its research also often crosses with the Crocodile Research conducted by the Australia Zoo, and thus there is constant cooperative operations between the two organisation. Their operations spread from the shores of Australia to the forest in Cambodia and the Savannah.
The Wildlife Warriors accepts volunteers in the catch and release of injured wildlife, bringing the public to the forefront of the conflict between human and wildlife co-existence. Most common animals saved are the Sea Turtles that get caught in fishing nets or crab-ports near the coast. They also accept distress calls from the public over animals that have come into the homes, or become victims of vehicles, giving the public autonomy over their conservatory actions. Having the public be this near to the conflict, the Wildlife Warriors is also encouraging the positive and responsible behaviour to improve the relationship between the community and the wildlife.
After Steve’s death, there was widespread support from the public, donations flooded in from all corners from the globe, and just over a month later, $2 million was collected – supporting the organisation’s local and international operations for the next six to nine months. It was clear that Steve’s enthusiasm towards animals have touch the lives of many, his believes lives through this organisation. Bindi naturally took over as the public face of the Wildlife Warriors, and has since represented the organisation in advocating education for conservation. See here for more information.