The Second Chance Wildlife Center is a five year old nonprofit organization based in Gaithersburg, MD. The Center's Director, Christine Montuori, is a highly trained and licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Her staff consists of Christine, Mira Millar- Assistant Director, and two part-time paid employees. They are aided by a fluctuating number of devoted volunteers, interns, and limited veterinary assistance.
Over 3000 animals per year are rescued, treated and released back to the wild when ready. This care results in approximately a 55% survival rate for orphaned and injured wildlife. The Center is open 7 days a week and is available to the public for assistance and tours. Second Chance works in tandem with the County and US Humane Societies to facilitate wildlife rescues, maintenance and housing. They are also involved in educating school children about wildlife needs. Daily helpful advice is given over the phone, and thousands of calls from the public are handled each year to educate and suggest humane solutions to wildlife problems.
Second Chance's operating budget is $100,000 per year and is solely dependent on donations. This is not ideal for wildlife care which is a continuing concern. Next year their no-cost lease from Park and Planning for the building they occupy will expire, and a permanent no-charge arrangement is needed. Additional facilities for wildlife care are also a requirement, and renovations of the barn should be considered. Unfortunately, Second Chance was overlooked in the current county budget. The Maryland Alliance for Greenway Improvement and Conservation (MAGIC) is attempting to publicize their needs along with the needs of wildlife in Montgomery County and secure emergency funds. Second Chance is a truly outstanding organization and a credit to the county. It fills a void no other organization can handle. Rehabilitation of wildlife is an obligation Montgomery County needs to step up to just as they step up to their obligations to people.
Second Chance Wildlife Center
7101 Barcellona Drive
Gaithersburg, MD 20897
Phone 301-926-WILD