Ferncroft Wildlife Rescue provides educational programs to thousands of people each year. Pamela & Bill work as a team to provide public programs, conference presentations, workshops and community events. Specializing in opossums, the Lefferts especially enjoy sharing knowledge about these misunderstood fascinating animals.  “Rehabilitation remains a priority, but public education is equally important to helping wildlife survive.”

Pam Lefferts retired after many years in the field of education, Pam is the “hands-on” partner and does the critical medical care of the animals, preparing them for release. “I particularly like doing workshops with animal caregivers, rehabbers, vet techs, etc., that want to learn the newest updated information on opossum care.”

 Bill Lefferts retired after teaching secondary school moderate to severe special needs children for over 40 years.  Bill takes responsibility for maintaining the rescue grounds and facilities. He particularly enjoys the projects of building cages and pens.  “Maybe because we're retired teachers. We believe education brings understanding and change.”

 The Lefferts hold special Federal permits and State approval to keep educational animals. Working with non-releasable opossums includes daily interaction and training. The Lefferts have in-depth knowledge and experience of all stages of an opossum life. Always lovers of animals, the Lefferts operated a hobby farm for many years prior to retirement. In 2016 they began the process of becoming Wildlife rehabilitators and in early 2017 they opened Ferncroft Wildlife Rescue in Woodstock CT. They love to share their passion and knowledge of how and what “rehabbing” entails.

Pam authored a children’s book “From Pouch to Couch” to help children understand why some animals are non-releasable… and the importance of letting healthy wildlife run free.

 Ferncroft Wildlife Rescue is a 501(c)3 organization with permits to provide educational programs in CT, MA and RI.  Ambassador animals used for educational programs help bring an awareness and understanding of opossums and other wildlife through hands-on interactive moments