Karen is principal of Branford River Raptor Center, Inc., which is dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured and orphaned raptors, conservation of birds of prey and their habitat through public education and research of threatened and endangered species. Karen and her husband, Jim, have been administering the Land Trust's osprey platform program since its inception.

She has brought into her complex over 50 wounded hawks and owls this year, concentrating on raptors which have special requirements and needs which she is equipped to handle. Karen also makes great effort to "get the public close to them and teach the public how close they are to us" through appearances with her hawks and owls at community events. Finally, she engages in conservation efforts that, around Branford, include erecting and monitoring osprey platforms and banding fledglings. Karen also works closely with the State Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

What does she do when injured birds are brought in? First, she evaluates the condition of the bird and determines the cause of injury. Then, she stabilizes it. Birds with head injuries are placed in a quiet, warm place. Injured wings are wrapped to immobilize them. Starving, thin and emaciated birds are given re-hydrating fluid to restore their strength prior to being fed.

Veterinarians have been most cooperative, according to Karen. They examine the birds, do X-rays and surgery when necessary, all tasks that cannot be done by rehabilitators.

What should you do when you find an injured bird or animal?

• BABY BIRDS: leave them alone; do not pick them up! An exception to this rule may apply if you see the nest out of which the bird has fallen and can safely put it back in. Karen says that young birds live outside the nest for a time to develop their wings and flying skills. They are still being fed by the parents. This process is called, "branching."

• A small bird or juvenile mammal can be put in a box with a soft cloth or towel covered floor. Wear gloves when handling these animals; they can bite or claw. Do not feed them. Call a rehabilitator, a veterinarian, the Branford Police or the State DEP which has a special number (860) 424-3333.

• MAMMALS: skunks, raccoons, squirrels may be carrying a virus, perhaps rabies, and should not be handled. Call the DEP

¥ FAWNS: leave them alone unless you know that the doe has been injured or killed. They are usually not orphaned; the doe is nearby and will return to the fawn after dark. Call the DEP if injured.

What can you do to PREVENT human caused injury to mammals and birds?

• Keep your cat indoors at all times. Bells don't work, and declawed cats are still effective predators. Neuter your cat to prevent it from breeding and encourage others to do so. Don't release an unwanted cat; contact your local animal welfare organization for help. Locate your bird feeders in sites that do not provide cover for cats to wait in ambush for birds. Eliminate sources of food such a garbage or outdoor pet food dishes, that attract stray cats. Don't feed stray cats.

• Monofilament line kills and wounds many birds and mammals that become entangled in it. No line should be left outdoors.

• Soccer and handball nets should be taken down when not in use. Birds and mammals get caught in them.

• Plastic six-pack holders, plastic bags, kite strings and mylar balloons with strings should be picked up. They suffocate and strangle birds.

We should all be thankful for wildlife rehabilitators such as Karen and the veterinarians who volunteer their time and skills to repair and return our wonderful mammals and birds to their natural habitat.

Anyone wishing more information may call Karen Hannon at 488-2610 or write her at PO Box 156, Branford 06405-0156.