Founded in 1981 by Dr. Kathy Orr, Liberty Wildlife has been a beacon of hope for injured and orphaned animals across Arizona. What started as a humble rehabilitation center on a 2-acre plot of land in Scottsdale has blossomed into a thriving sanctuary dedicated to the preservation and protection of the state’s diverse wildlife.
In its inaugural year, Liberty Wildlife saw 80 animals pass through its doors. Fast forward to 2023, and the facility received nearly 10,000 animals in need of rehabilitation.
Among these is “Cochise” a captivating 11-year-old bald eagle with a tale of mischief.
Originally from Gillette, Wyoming he gained a bad reputation as a trout thief and a lover of human company. Despite numerous attempts to relocate him from the trout hatchery where he spent a lot of time, his affinity for trouble making continued. Eventually he found his way to Liberty Wildlife where he could thrive under the care and dedication of eagle experts. Now, he proudly serves as an ambassador for the facility’s educational endeavors.
Laura Hackett, Liberty Wildlife’s education manager and wildlife biologist, underscored the facility’s dual focus on rehabilitation and education. “We are closing in on a 60 percent release rate,” Hackett said, surpassing the national average—a testament to their unwavering commitment.
Since relocating to Phoenix in 2016, Liberty Wildlife has expanded its outreach, offering educational programs, field trips, and homeschool events. During peak seasons, up to 100 animals, ranging from lizards to majestic bald eagles, find refuge at the facility daily.
Volunteers form the backbone of Liberty Wildlife, with over 300 individuals contributing their time and expertise. Emma Goodwin, a volunteer, emphasized the educational aspect of her experience. “I love learning about birds and having hands-on experiences,” Goodwin said reflecting on her journey from orphan and daily care to various roles within the organization and most recently educating visitors about specific birds.
One distinctive feature of Liberty Wildlife is its feather repository, overseen by Robert Mesta. Protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, these feathers hold cultural significance for Native American communities.
“The Native American community that preceded us had a spiritual connection to these animals,” Hackett said.
The non-Eagle Feather depository was established to combat illegal trading and honor these traditions.
“They are protected by law, you can’t sell these feathers,” Mesta said. “They [Native American community] have to get the feathers from us because we are a legal entity.”
As Liberty Wildlife continues to expand its reach and impact, it remains dedicated to nurturing Arizona’s wildlife and fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world. Through community involvement and support, the organization strives to uphold its legacy as a guardian of both nature and tradition.
Natalie Sames, a first-time visitor, marveled at the opportunity to witness wildlife up close.
“Coming and seeing these animals up close and personal is so much different than watching them on a computer or reading about them for education,” she said while expressing her desire to volunteer and contribute to Liberty Wildlife’s mission.
Liberty Wildlife is located at 2600 E. Elwood St., Phoenix, AZ 85040, with visiting hours on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for students (K-12). For wildlife emergencies, the hospital intake window operates daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with an emergency message line available from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. (480-998-5550).
