Cedar, the blind moose calf at Holly's Haven wildlife rescue, faces a life of captivity despite recovering from his injuries. Experts agree that his limited vision makes survival in the wild unlikely, prompting long-term care strategies at the center.
A New Home for Cedar: The Blind Moose Calf’s Journey to Survival
A New Home for Cedar: The Blind Moose Calf’s Journey to Survival
Holly's Haven Wildlife Rescue Center in Ottawa takes on the challenge of rehabilitating Cedar, a blind moose calf, who cannot be released back into the wild.
In a serene corner of Ottawa, Holly's Haven wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center has become home to an extraordinary resident: Cedar, a blind moose calf with an injured leg. At just a month and a half old, Cedar’s situation presents both extraordinary challenges and a long-term plan for his wellbeing.
Lynne Rowe, the founder and director of operations at Holly's Haven, has found herself diving deep into the unique requirements for nurturing young moose. This responsibility is not for the faint-hearted, especially considering the typical mandate of wildlife rehabilitation centers – to return animals to their natural habitats once they’re fit enough to fend for themselves.
Cedar's prognosis is less than ideal; while he may regain partial sight in his right eye, experts have unanimously confirmed that his chances of survival in the wild are grim. Young moose like Cedar are highly susceptible to predation from coyotes and wolves, making his potential reintroduction to the wild a dangerous gamble. Unlike other animals taken in at the center, Cedar has drawn parallels with Holly, the raccoon that inspired its name, who also lived out her days in captivity due to brain damage that rendered her unable to survive outside.
Currently tipping the scales at around 30 kilograms, Cedar could grow to as much as 700 kilograms as an adult, complicating his rehabilitation journey. Rowe expressed concern as Cedar grazes peacefully on willow branches, recognizing the harsh realities of wildlife rehabilitation. “He’d be extremely vulnerable out there,” she states, emphasizing the center’s commitment to providing him with a safe and nurturing environment.
As Cedar continues his recovery, efforts are focused on creating an enriching life for him at Holly’s Haven. The team is exploring possibilities for socialization with other non-releasable animals, ensuring that Cedar can lead a fulfilling life despite the challenges he faces. The initiative highlights the unwavering commitment of wildlife rescue teams to adapt and evolve in the face of new challenges and to offer hope to animals like Cedar who remind us of nature's fragility.
