Olivia Newsom has been volunteering with WRL since August 2024 as a helpline volunteer, but she has also had the opportunity to go on one rescue trip for a goose that was stuck in ice. A zoology major with a career goal of becoming a wildlife educator, Olivia started volunteering with WRL to be more involved with wild animals and further her experience in their care.
Throughout her time volunteering, Olivia has learned so much from rehabilitators and other animal care staff. One of her most memorable calls came early in her volunteer experience when a woman reported finding two baby opossums with no mom in sight, but as the caller went to contain them, she spotted a third, then a fourth, fifth, and sixth baby opossum in what became like an Easter egg hunt! Eventually, all six orphaned babies were located and placed in a box for rehab care.
Working at a farm where she can often be found hanging out with pigs and chickens (her favorite farm animals), Olivia enjoys playing volleyball, collecting pins and magnets, caring for her dramatic houseplants, building cool scenes with Legos, going on nature walks, and hanging out with her three goofball cats.
Wildlife Rescue League offers thanks to the dedicated volunteers who give their time, energy, and hearts to helping injured and orphaned wildlife. The spotlight will feature exceptional individuals whose diverse skills and unwavering commitment exemplify the spirit of WRL.
Volunteer Spotlight is brought to you by Andres Soria. Andres joined WRL’s Marketing Committee in 2022 and is one of our go-to photographers. In his time off, he enjoys wildlife photography, hiking, and biking.
