The Texas Sealife Center in Corpus Christi, TX supports the conservation, rehabilitation, and release of all aquatic and coastal wildlife. They are a non-profit organization that formed from the recognition that there was a need for a much greater support network in South Texas after observing the growing number of animals admitted to wildlife centres across the USA each year.
Though still in its relative infancy, the dedicated team is enthusiastic about the development of the project and their passion is contagious. They are building a great deal of momentum and garnering public support as they proceed to grow. Their mission statement is to rescue any and all injured or stranded aquatic and coastal wildlife, to provide support, care, and rehabilitation for the rescued creatures, and then to eventually release them back into their native habitat. Alongside this, the centre hopes to educate and raise public awareness in regards to conservation and what can be done to help or limit our impact on the natural world around us.
The centre was first established from a small group of volunteers in 2010, but they have grown year after year and have built upon their impact and their ability to help and serve the local area. In 2012, the Texas Sealife Center found its home when they were granted permission to use a building in the Packery Channel Nature Park. In 2013, work began on renovating the building and converting it into an education centre, nature trail, and hospital. The capacity of the building to house birds and especially sea turtles, which are being admitted more and more regularly, has continued to grow, and as of 2016 they were nearing the completion of their Phase 1 plans for the project and looking forward to the future development of Phase 2.
They don’t keep themselves locked away at the centre itself, though, they are also incredibly active within the local area as well as in community funding and initiating various conservation efforts to help safeguard local wildlife. Working alongside other conservation groups in the area such as ARK (Animal Rehabilitation Keep) and FOTA (Friend of the Ark), they are doing great things to alonghelp sea turtles on the local coastline.
The centre offers volunteer work and education to the public and anyone who wishes to get involved couldn’t be more welcome. If you love animals and want to do whatever you can, this is a rewarding and rich experience that will serve your own betterment as well as the world around you.
Admission
Admission to the centre is free of charge, although they are a non-profit and fund themselves through donation and membership. They welcome everybody to get involved in any way they can, relying on public awareness and dedication to the project.
Address
14220 S. Padre Island Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78418, Phone: 361-589-4023