Meet Linda York

Nominated by Martha Hills.

The Coachella Valley Wild Bird Center is a rehabilitation facility for birds of prey. I nominate the founder, Linda York, who works tirelessly to return injured birds to the wild while also training volunteers and educating the public through school outreach programs and public speaking. In 1978, she became a docent at a local zoo and gravitated to the animal department rehab center, where she first began working with birds of prey. She started attending conferences, reading, taking classes, consulting with professionals, and joined several groups that promote wildlife rehabilitation. She established a nonprofit corporation in 1986, and operated out of her home for several years. When the number of birds reached 250 in one year, it became evident that she needed a place for the birds and more volunteers, which resulted in the opening of the CVWBC in 1995. She formed a partnership with the Valley Sanitary District, which allowed her access to their newly created wetlands where people can go for bird watching and nature walks. Today, birds are brought to the center by the California Department of Fish & Game, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and animal control organizations from various cities and the general public. All species of native birds are handled. As an active member of the community, Linda's devotion, good nature and willingness to teach has attracted a base group of volunteers as well as high school students and others interested in careers involving wildlife.