SWFL.io - Local NewsReporter: Bianca Smith
•6/23/2026
PUNTA GORDA, Fla. (WINK) — After decades of rescuing, rehabilitating, and educating the public about Florida’s native wildlife, Peace River Wildlife Center is preparing for a major move that will mark a new chapter in its history.
The nonprofit organization, a fixture at Ponce de Leon Park, is transitioning to a larger facility on Henry Street designed to better serve both wildlife and the community. The new campus will provide significantly more space for animal care, educational programming, and visitor experiences.
For years, the center has operated within a limited footprint while caring for thousands of injured and orphaned animals. From owls to turtles, the center has cared for all kinds of animals. The expanded facility will allow the organization to provide improved habitats and accommodations for these non-releasable wildlife ambassadors.
The move also represents an investment in the future of wildlife conservation education in Southwest Florida. Plans for the new site include enhanced opportunities for school groups, community outreach programs, volunteers, and visitors to learn about the importance of protecting Florida’s unique ecosystems.
Peace River Wildlife Center CEO, Tricia LaPointe, says they can't wait for the new upgrade, " It's 128 times bigger than our current facility. It's going to mean more space not only for the animals but for us as well."
As construction progresses and preparations continue, staff, volunteers, and supporters are looking forward to welcoming visitors to the new facility and continuing the organization’s mission of rescue, rehabilitation, and education.
After decades of rescuing, rehabilitating, and educating the public about Florida’s native wildlife, Peace River Wildlife Center is preparing for a major move that will mark a new chapter in its history.
The facility is set to open in October. "We encourage everyone to come and check out our facility here at Ponce De Leon Park while you can. After everything we've been through, we're so excited to move into a new facility," said LaPointe.
For the animals that depend on the center, and the people who care about Florida’s wildlife, the move represents more than a change of address. It is an opportunity to build a stronger future for wildlife conservation in Charlotte County and Southwest Florida.
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