by Joseph H. RADDER
Norman Fertig’s “can-do” spirit keeps him forever young and active. After
serving 25 years at the Niagara Frontier Vocational Rehabilitation Center, Inc., as a
“human” rehabilitation counselor, Norman decided to join his wife, Eve, in
rehabilitating wildlife at their Enchanted Forest Wildlife Sanctuary in Alden, New York.
For the last 20 years, the couple has rescued injured birds, foxes and
other animals, nursing them back to health so that they can ultimately set them free.
Norman’s love for his volunteer career spurred him to teach others how to help
wildlife. He began by assisting Eve with a course she gives at area colleges entitled,
“Saving Endangered Species & Caring for Injured & Orphaned Wildlife.” He
obtained his license in wildlife rehabilitation from the New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation, and in just two years, he was promoted to a Class II
rehabilitator. Like Eve, Norman is now qualified to instruct classes in wildlife
rehabilitation. His next class on “Saving Endangered Species & Caring fir Injured
& Orphaned Wildlife” is set for Saturday, April 8, 1998, at the Enchanted Forest
Wildlife Sanctuary.
Each year, hundreds of in need are cared for by the Fertigs and other
Enchanted Forest volunteers. Norman’s reward is seeing the animals returned to
nature, able, once again, to care for themselves. His contributions, together with
Eve’s, will long be felt by Mother Nature.
Joseph H. Radder is a freelance writer.