Dear friends and supporters of TREE,

Over the past three decades, Tidewater Rehabilitation & Environmental Education and its predecessors have had the privilege of rehabilitating thousands of animals, spanning across various species including mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. Your unwavering support, dedication, and love for our organization have been instrumental in these accomplishments.

Today, we wish to share an important announcement that marks a significant turning point in TREE’s mission. Starting 2024, we will be realigning our focus to better support the magnificent raptors and seabirds of the greater Tidewater region. We will no longer be accepting mammals, and most reptiles and amphibians into our care.

The decision to shift our focus towards birds and waterfowl was not made lightly. It comes after careful consideration of the unique needs and challenges faced by the avian species in our region. While there are many remarkable organizations dedicated to the welfare of mammals, there are very few that specialize in seabird rehabilitation.

By concentrating on birds, we aim to have a more substantial and lasting impact on the ecological well-being of our beautiful Tidewater area. This transition will also allow us to allocate resources, time, and expertise more efficiently, making a positive difference where it is most needed.

Rest assured, TREE will continue to provide occasional care for reptiles and amphibians, as their needs often overlap with the avian species we will be primarily focused on. We remain dedicated to our education and conservation efforts, and our commitment to wildlife advocacy will not waver.

We want to express our gratitude to all of you who have supported us throughout the years, whether through donations, transporting patients, volunteer work, or simply by believing in our mission. Without your support, none of our past accomplishments would have been possible, and we look forward to your continued involvement as we embark on this new journey.

Please join us in this transition and help us continue to protect and preserve the extraordinary raptors, seabirds, and waterfowl of our area. Thank you for being part of the TREE family and for your dedication to the natural world. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of the birds who grace our skies and waters, today and in the years to come.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Lisa Barlow, LVT

President, Tidewater Rehabilitation & Environmental Education