Yvonne Marie Sitko’s Commitment to Wildlife Conservation

By: Joshua Finley

Yvonne Marie Sitko’s devotion to wildlife conservation originates from her childhood affinity for birds of prey. This lifelong passion has driven her on an inspirational path as an entrepreneur, educator and dedicated wildlife rehabilitator. Recently, Yvonne shared insights into her captivating journey and unwavering dedication to protecting wildlife.

From Early Interest to Lifelong Dedication

Yvonne’s youthful interests laid the seeds for her future. “As a little girl, I’ve always had an interest in birds of prey; well, birds in general, but birds of prey in particular,” she recalls. This budding fascination grew into a calling that Yvonne has dutifully followed.

Her introduction to wildlife rehabilitation began in 2000. Yvonne initially maintained a full-time job while volunteering in her free time. In 2002, she took a bold leap, leaving her job to pursue her passion. Yvonne invested herself fully into wildlife caring, a choice initially met with doubt. “I literally left a full-time paying job and really jumped into this full time,” she shares. “I even got the comment ‘When are you going to get a real job?’ two years in.”

Yvonne persevered with conviction, driven by her sense of obligation. “I’m going down with the sinking ship and I can assure you my ship is not going to sink,” she asserted. Her ship has stayed impressively afloat, now employing thirteen staff members and still recruiting.

Building a Wildlife Rehabilitation Career

At the core of Yvonne’s mission is caring for injured and orphaned wildlife. She is specially licensed to rehabilitate native animals with the goal of releasing them back into the wild. Her facility focuses on raptors – birds of prey such as eagles, falcons and owls.

Yvonne’s introduction to her famous eagle, Auzzie, exemplifies her rehabilitation efforts. Auzzie arrived as a chick, rescued from illegal captivity. Though too habituated to humans to return to the wild, Auzzie found a perfect ambassador role under Yvonne’s care.

Yvonne has played an instrumental role in establishing an on-site raptor hospital at her facility. Motivated by obligation, she has contributed significantly to covering the hospital costs, funding a substantial portion of the expenses. For Yvonne, this investment fuels her core mission of “rehabilitation and that education has become bigger than me.”

Educating Through Entertainment

Yvonne realized that her passion for raptors could powerfully educate others. This epiphany led Yvonne to launch bird of prey flying displays from 2005 onward. She sees incredible value in blending education with entertainment. “I’ve been able to influence over 27 million people on conservation, environmental education and animal welfare,” she shares.

A pivotal moment arrived in 2007 when Auzzie first took flight at a stadium event. This spectacular sight left a lasting impression on spectators. Auzzie’s grace and splendor made her an instant icon. As Yvonne reflects, “She’s created her own brand” with over 27 million reached thus far.

Yvonne seizes every chance to spread her message, from game-day crowds to corporate functions. She visits with fans and executives alike to share conservation insights. Yvonne finds these relaxed settings let people open up. “It’s a very casual environment for us to make an impact,” she notes. Through Auzzie, Yvonne hopes to inspire personal changes and cultivate environmental awareness in others.

Yvonne Marie Sitko’s Commitment to Wildlife Conservation (1)

Photo Courtesy: Yvonne Marie Sitko

The Future of Auzzie and Wildlife Education

At age 18, Auzzie the eagle has many soaring years ahead as an ambassador. Meanwhile, Yvonne aims to expand their educational impact wider. She hopes to collaborate again with renowned figures like Sir David Attenborough, Prince Harry and other sporting codes to showcase Auzzie globally.

Yvonne also plans further outreach overseas where raptors hold cultural significance. This includes destinations like England, Europe, Dubai, and Africa. Cross-cultural exchanges can strengthen wildlife appreciation worldwide.

While pushing her horizons outward, Yvonne keeps wildlife conservation central. She aims to reach 100 million people by 2026 through Auzzie and her menagerie of wildlife. This ambitious goal compels Yvonne to keep striving for greater influence.

After 18 years flying with Auzzie, Yvonne remains devoted to her childhood passion. Her lifelong obligation continues driving positive change for wildlife and people alike. Through determination and care, Yvonne empowers others to join her in this vital mission. Her soaring success stands as inspiration to follow one’s calling wholeheartedly.

To learn more about Yvonne Marie Sitko and Auzzie, check out her LinkedIn profile.