Now is the season when people start to notice backyard birds and wildlife. Animals can be seen venturing out of hibernation, migrating, and in general are more active at this time of year.
BC SPCA, including the Powell River branch on Duncan Street, is holding a province-wide Wildlife-in-Focus photography contest beginning May 15.
“There are two categories, including wild settings and backyard habitat,” said provincial spokesperson and photography contest coordinator Erin Ryan. “We want to acknowledge all the beautiful animals in our backyards and parks.”
Ryan emphasized that the photos are important for all of the work BC SPCA does and to show the diversity across BC.
“We want to have an accurate representation of the wide variety of species we have [across the province],” said Ryan.
BC SPCA is hoping to receive photos from everywhere in the province, including the qathet region. There will be 13 winning photos chosen by volunteer judges and a People’s Choice Award, where community members will have a chance to choose their favourites.
The photos will be featured in a desk-top calendar to be used as a fundraising tool for the BC SPCA Wild Animal Rehabilitation Centre (Wild ARC) in Metchosin on Vancouver Island. Wild ARC coordinates with all rehabilitation centres around the province [including Powell River] to coordinate rescues and rehabilitation for hurt and injured animals.
“We had a baby beaver sent from Dawson Creek up north and because of the lack of facilities there, it was sent to Victoria and then back to Dawson Creek, once the beaver was stable,” said Ryan. “The BC SPCA’s mission has always been to enhance the quality of life and advocate for domestic, farm and wild animals.”
BC SPCA is the only animal welfare organization in the province with the authority to enforce animal cruelty laws. The photo contest is open for entries and votes until May 31 2023. For more information go to, gogophotocontest.com/bc-spca-wildlife-in-focus.
