Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center (SWCC) is celebrating a remarkable milestone – 30 years of rescuing, rehabilitating and protecting Arizona’s native wildlife. Founded in 1994 by Linda Searles, the Scottsdale-based nonprofit has grown into a vital sanctuary for animals in need while playing a critical role in wildlife conservation efforts across the state.
To mark this achievement, SWCC will host the Wild About Wildlife 30th Anniversary Gala on November 8 at The Clayton House in Scottsdale. Looking forward to the event, Searles said, “We’re most excited to celebrate the last 30 years and know that SWCC’s many friends and donors are committed to the future as well.”
The journey began with a single coyote pup named Don, who Searles rescued, inspiring her to create a haven for injured, orphaned, and displaced wildlife. Over the past three decades, SWCC has become a leader in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, taking in over 350 animals annually and successfully releasing more than 200 back into their natural habitats yearly. SWCC provides essential care to various species, from mountain lions and bears to owls and bobcats.
Searles’ vision goes beyond rehabilitation. SWCC has been at the forefront of conservation medicine, pioneering vaccine trials, wildlife diet research and playing a crucial role in the recovery of endangered species including the Mexican gray wolf. This comprehensive approach ensures that individual animals are saved and entire ecosystems are supported.
“There are so many things we’ve impacted, it’s hard to choose just one. SWCC plays a significant role in endangered species recovery efforts, holding 13 Mexican gray wolves as part of a reintroduction program with U.S. Fish and Wildlife,” Searles said. “Establishing our veteran hospital and conservation medicine are also major achievements. Educating the next generation about the importance of our wildlife and habitat so they can continue our mission is paramount.”
One of SWCC’s strengths lies in its partnerships. Searles has cultivated a lasting relationship with the Arizona Game and Fish Department, working to enhance wildlife conservation efforts statewide. These collaborations and the dedication of volunteers and supporters have helped solidify SWCC’s role as a cornerstone in Arizona’s wildlife protection efforts. Education is another core component of SWCC’s mission. The center offers public tours and educational programs and operates a 24/7 wildlife hotline.
“Our partnership with Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center is more than a collaboration; it’s a shared commitment that has flourished over decades,” AGFD Wildlife Viewing Program Manager Jeff Meyers said. “We are honored to witness firsthand the profound impact SWCC makes in rescuing, rehabilitating, and, when possible, releasing Arizona’s native wildlife.”
Click here to reserve tickets for the Wild About Wildlife 30th Anniversary Gala. To learn more about SWCC’s mission, visit southwestwildlife.org.
