Looking Back, Looking Forward: Reflections on Change at Tri-State

When I first walked through the doors of Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research in October of 1999, I could not have imagined how much would change—not just within these walls, but across the entire field of wildlife rehabilitation. As we celebrate 50 years of Tri-State, it feels especially meaningful to pause, reflect, and appreciate how far we’ve come.

In 1999, wildlife rehabilitation was already driven by passion and dedication, but many of the standards and tools we now consider essential were still evolving. One of the most significant changes I’ve witnessed has been in animal welfare, particularly in medical care. Today, treating pain is an integral part of rehabilitation. We use a multimodal approach, combining different therapies to manage discomfort and support healing. Years ago, pain management was not always as thoroughly considered—not due to lack of compassion, but because the science, access, and protocols simply weren’t what they are now. Advances in veterinary medicine, research, and collaboration have allowed us to offer birds a level of care that was once unimaginable.

Husbandry practices have also transformed dramatically. Enclosure design has grown with our understanding of both physical and psychological well-being. Larger, more thoughtfully designed spaces now prioritize natural movement, flight conditioning, and species-specific needs. We’ve moved beyond simply housing birds to creating environments that support recovery and preparation for release. The incorporation of native plants and appropriate food items has brought rehabilitation closer to the birds’ natural lives, helping them retain vital behaviors and instincts.

Perhaps one of the most profound shifts I’ve observed is in wildlife rehabilitation itself. What was once often viewed as a hobby or volunteer-driven pursuit has grown into a revered profession. Today, rehabilitation is supported by a network of educators, mentors, scientists, and veterinarians. There are formal college courses, professional certifications, and ongoing research guiding best practices. This evolution has strengthened not only the care we provide, but also the credibility and sustainability of the field as a whole.

Through all of these changes, one thing has remained constant: the heart of Tri-State. While protocols, equipment, and terminology may have evolved, the core mission—to rescue, rehabilitate, and release wildlife while advancing conservation—has never wavered. The people who pass through these doors, whether staff, volunteers, interns, or supporters, continue to share a deep respect for wildlife and a commitment to doing better for the animals in our care.

As we celebrate 50 years, it’s clear that Tri-State’s story is one of growth, learning, and adaptation. The progress we’ve made reflects not only advances in science and medicine, but also a willingness to ask hard questions, embrace change, and continually raise the bar.

Looking back, I feel grateful to have witnessed this evolution firsthand. Looking forward, I’m excited to see where the next 50 years will take us—because if history is any indication, the future of wildlife rehabilitation at Tri-State will be just as dynamic, thoughtful, and inspiring as its past.