Meet Our Founder

Michela Dunbar, LWR, CWR

Michela first discovered her passion for wildlife at just 19 years old when she began volunteer work at a wildlife rehabilitation center in Longmont. Specializing in field rescue, Michela soon took on the role of Rescue & Service Coordinator at Northern Colorado Wildlife Center. It’s here that she sees the impacts of human activity on wildlife, and vice versa! Over the past six years, Michela has dedicated her life to wildlife, earning state and federal licensing and international recognition. In addition to a degree in Zoology, Michela has earned her Wildlife Rehabilitation License from Colorado Parks and Wildlife and is one of only five nationally Certified Wildlife Rehabilitators in the state of Colorado.

Michela continues her work as a wildlife rehabilitator in Fort Collins, caring for over 100 species of native birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Every day, she fields calls from frustrated homeowners and business owners seeking solutions for the wildlife sharing their space. Often, these individuals feel they have no other option and turn to pest control companies for help. Despite their good intentions, this frequently results in orphaned babies or injured adult animals—while the underlying problem remains unresolved. After witnessing the harm caused by so-called “humane” control methods, Michela founded Nature’s Neighbors Solutions to offer the community affordable, effective assistance that truly protects both the local ecosystem and its wild residents.

Michela has extensive training and experience on the natural histories of local wildlife, bringing a true understanding of their impacts, habits, and importance. She is also trained in handling all species of Colorado wildlife, including the only venomous snake in the state, the rattlesnake.