Founded in 1986 by local veterinarian Dr. Kathleen Ramsay, the New Mexico Wildlife Center (NMWC) began as a rehabilitation facility for injured birds and has since evolved into a leading organization serving wildlife across New Mexico. Recognizing that long-term conservation requires more than individual animal care, NMWC expanded its focus to include conservation education, helping foster understanding and coexistence between people and wildlife.

Located on a 20-acre site just south of Española, NMWC opened its public facility in 2005, welcoming visitors to learn about native wildlife through its Ambassador Animals, educational programs, and interactive experiences. The Center’s on-site wildlife hospital treats hundreds of injured and orphaned animals each year from over 120 species, returning as many as possible to the wild while supporting the public with year-round guidance on living responsibly alongside wildlife.