Fawn is a beautiful northern yellow yearling who is ready for release.  She came to us late last summer, and we over-wintered her because she simply did not seem ready for release until late fall, when food started to get scarce.  Now’s the time to get her weight up and shoot some video to help us remember her.  She has been so patient with us, trusting us to do the right thing for her and now is the time to reward that trust.

Studies have shown that the joy engendered by an event is not diminished by accompanying sadness, but that joy is actually increased by such sadness.  The resulting poignancy is an extremely powerful emotion and this is what accompanies each and every release of an orphaned bat pup. We worry about them in so many ways; will they find a roost, food, a mate? Will they evade predators long enough to reproduce?  Will they realize that not all humans will treat them with kindness?  Will they be successful without the benefit of their mothers to show them the way?

But we’re so happy for them to have that second chance!  The worst outcome for us is the always present possibility that they will die in our care, without experiencing the wild life they were born to live.  We want to make sure the cold weather is behind us and that insects are abundant once again, and then it will be time.  We can’t plan such an event, the timing is always a spur of the moment instinctual feeling that she’s ready, the weather is cooperating, the stars are aligned, and the bat gods are smiling upon her.

All the best dear one!  You have given us so much joy! Make lots of yellow bat babies!  Live a long, happy life!