When the EF‑3 tornado slammed Menasha, Wisconsin, on September 2, the damage was evident in shattered homes, downed trees, and a community reeling from loss. Yet amid the debris, a quieter crisis unfolded: dozens of birds and small wildlife were left without shelter.
Heckrodt Wetland Reserve becomes an emergency wildlife hub
Despite sustaining its own damage, the Heckrodt Wetland Reserve quickly transformed from a supply depot into a critical refuge for the displaced animals. “We started out as a hub for supplies, but we soon realized that we were a much‑needed resource for wildlife that people found while cleaning up,” said Andrea Bierbrauer, a reserve coordinator.
Within days, the reserve took in injured and displaced creatures ranging from a pelican to a great horned owl. Each animal was handed over to the Raptor Education Group Inc. (REGI) for professional rehabilitation. “It’s kind of like physical therapy for animals; they’ll be released eventually,” Bierbrauer explained.
A heart‑warming rescue of baby bunnies
One of the most moving moments came when a local resident discovered a nest of baby bunnies beneath a fallen tree. The man carefully boxed the fragile nest and, despite his own home being damaged—roof missing and windows boarded—brought the bunnies to the reserve. “I kept them alive all night, thank you, they gave me a sense of hope,” he said, tears in his eyes. Bierbrauer echoed the sentiment, noting that the sight of community members caring for both neighbors and wildlife highlighted the town’s deep-rooted compassion.
Community spirit shines through tragedy
While the tornado was a devastating event, the response from Menasha’s residents has been a testament to the town’s strong family values and faith‑based generosity. “The wonderful thing isn’t that the tornado was wonderful, but that it brought the community together to help each other,” Bierbrauer said.
Local churches, civic groups, and volunteers have rallied to provide food, shelter, and emotional support to those affected. The rescue effort at Heckrodt Wetland Reserve exemplifies how faith‑guided service and a commitment to stewardship of God’s creation can turn disaster into an opportunity for collective good.
Looking ahead
As rehabilitation progresses, the rescued birds and mammals will be prepared for release back into Wisconsin’s natural habitats. The reserve plans to continue its outreach, offering educational programs on wildlife care and encouraging residents to report injured animals.
Menasha’s experience underscores a broader truth: when families and faith communities unite, even the most severe storms cannot break the spirit of a town dedicated to caring for its people and the creatures God placed on this earth.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
