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Welcome to the official website for Back To Nature Wildlife Refuge, located in Orlando, FL.

We are the largest registered non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the Rescue, Raise, Rehabilitation and Release of Central Florida's injured and orphaned native wildlife.

Found an animal?

FAQs

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Meet Our Vet!

doc and Oliver

Kelly Randolph, DVM

Union Park Animal Hospital (407) 273-6010

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Our Staff

"This certainly isn't a job for the faint hearted. The dedication needed to care for (sometimes) over 300 animals at a time, doesn't end at 4pm and often occurs even on our days off. Round the clock care is required for many animals forcing us to bring them (infant wildlife) into our homes at night, to be fed anywhere from every 2-4 hours. It's our love for them and the desire to promote public awareness of our furry friends, that keeps us going everyday"
-Staff of BTN

Debbie Helsel: Executive Director

Debbie, an Orlando native, grew up playing in the woods across the street from her home. She always knew she wanted to work with wildlife, but wasn’t sure how to make it happen. In early 1990, she took a job working for Orange County Animal Services. During her orientation at the shelter, she was told that she might have the opportunity to work directly with Carmen Shaw (Founder of Back to Nature). She knew of Carmen's name and her work with wildlife. Debbie spent the next nine years volunteering most evenings after work and almost every weekend at Back to Nature. It was then in 1999, that a rare opportunity presented itself for Debbie to become a paid staff member at BTN. She left her position with the county and followed her heart to the refuge. “I have practically grown up with the animals at the refuge and they are my family, as well as the volunteers, Carmen and her family. Carmen took me under her wing all those years ago and has entrusted me with her life’s work. What a privilege and a blessing it has been! I am looking very forward to the next chapter in our book for the refuge, and it is going to be an even more amazing journey than it has already been!”

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Kelly Verduin: Manager of Administration

Kelly, a UCF graduate with a Bachelors Degree in Psychology, began as a volunteer, at Back to Nature, in October 2002. Always having a love for animals and a desire to work in the wildlife field, Kelly found Back to Nature to be a great place to gain experience. By putting her degree to some use, she began researching ways to expand the wildlife enrichment program for the
permanent residents of the refuge. In January 2006, Kelly gladly accepted an open position at the refuge, as Assistant Curator. “Once I got to know these animals and understand their cause, I felt as if I would be turning my back on them (if I took a position elsewhere). Now, I get to see them and help everyday. I’m happy to call this place my home and my career.”