Each spring, the longer days and warming temperatures in Southwest Florida trigger breeding season for native wildlife that results in a surge of young wild animals. To raise awareness and support for the von Arx Wildlife Hospital's youngest, most delicate patients, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida is hosting its 10^th annual Wildlife Baby Shower from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 14, at the Conservancy Nature Center in Naples.

The shower will support the hospital's most at-risk patients – young wild animals facing human-created dangers, such as pet encounters, vehicle strikes and nest disturbance from landscaping. The Conservancy's von Arx Wildlife Hospital treats over 3,000 injured, sick and orphaned patients each year. In 2024 alone, over half of the animals admitted to the von Arx Wildlife Hospital for the entire year arrived between April and August.

On June 14, the public is invited to the Conservancy's Nature Center, located at 1495 Smith Preserve Way in Naples, to attend its Wildlife Baby Shower and drop off donations of items that are essential to patient care. In 2024, the nonprofit received donations totaling $1,600 and gift donations from Amazon and Chewy wish lists totaling over $4,000.

Requested donations for the 2025 baby shower include food and vitamin products, husbandry items, medical supplies and miscellaneous items like batteries, unused dog toys, and bug spray. Each person who brings an item from the Wildlife Wishlist to the Nature Center can choose from free admission for the day or a discounted family membership for $60 ($100 value). Members will receive a guest pass for free admission to share.

To donate to von Arx Wildlife Hospital and view the Conservancy's Amazon and Chewy wish lists, visit Conservancy.org/BabyShower.

About the Conservancy of Southwest Florida

The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is a nonprofit environmental organization that has protected water, land and wildlife in Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties for more than 60 years. Through environmental science, policy, education and wildlife rehabilitation, the Conservancy safeguards Southwest Florida's natural resources for future generations.

Headquartered in Naples, Florida, the Conservancy is home to Collier County's only native wildlife hospital and its vibrant Nature Center. Currently open to visitors, the Nature Center is undergoing a major transformation into a new, impactful community offering—the John & Carol Walter Nature Experience, set to open in 2028. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a gateway to conservation, offering immersive exhibits, hands-on learning and expanded programs to inspire environmental stewardship and enhance the region's quality of life.

Learn more and support Southwest Florida's environmental future at www.conservancy.org.