Snap Judgment Podcast Episode Summary
Title: Birdzilla: Mother of Eagles
Host/Author: Snap Judgment and PRX
Release Date: May 8, 2025

Introduction: A Unique Love Story

In this heartfelt episode of Snap Judgment, host Nika Singh introduces the compelling narrative of Murdo Messer and his late wife, Helene Van Donick. The story intertwines themes of love, resilience, and dedication to wildlife conservation, all set against the backdrop of their shared passion for birds of prey.

Meeting Helene: A Bond Over Nintendo

Murdo Messer recounts how his relationship with Helene began in an unexpected place:

Murdo Messer [05:16]: "I was lying on the floor playing a Nintendo video game when Helene came downstairs. She asked if she could join, and that's how we started connecting."

Their shared interest led to long drives through Newfoundland, deepening their bond and setting the stage for their future together.

Building the Cobequid Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

Driven by their commitment to wildlife, Murdo and Helene founded the Cobequid Wildlife Rehabilitation Center on a one-acre plot. The center featured nine structures, including a songbird enclosure, a nursery, and a giant flyway for birds of prey. Murdo describes the early challenges:

Murdo Messer [16:29]: "It was like jumping in feet first into the deep end. Neither of us had much experience with large birds of prey."

Despite setbacks, such as handling aggressive eagles, their dedication never waned. An incident with a particularly formidable eagle led Murdo to nickname her "Birdzilla":

Murdo Messer [25:45]: "From that moment on, I was the only person who could really handle that bird. It was always a fight."

The Story of Birdzilla: A Test of Strength and Spirit

Birdzilla became a central figure in their work. Murdo shares the intense experience of handling her:

Murdo Messer [25:45]: "Birdzilla was a massive bird, the biggest I've ever handled. Holding her felt like trying to hold a toddler having a tantrum with a fistful of steak knives."

Their efforts to rehabilitate Birdzilla culminated in a successful release:

Murdo Messer [34:00]: "She knew exactly where she was and what she was doing. It was a perfect release. It was beautiful."

The release was a poignant moment, symbolizing both the success of their work and the deep connection they had with these magnificent creatures.

Helene's Battle with Ovarian Cancer

Amidst their professional triumphs, Helene faced a personal battle. Diagnosed with a rare form of ovarian cancer on May 1, 2017, she showed remarkable strength:

Murdo Messer [43:52]: "Helene was always thinking of others. Even while battling cancer, she continued to care for the animals at the center."

Helene's unwavering commitment to wildlife persisted despite her declining health, embodying her resilient spirit.

Final Days and Legacy

In July 2018, Helene attended a board meeting for the wildlife center, fully aware of her prognosis:

Murdo Messer [40:50]: "She knew she was dying. She asked us to keep the center going, as it was her passion, her life."

Helene's passing left Murdo facing the daunting task of continuing their shared mission. Reflecting on their life together, Murdo shares:

Murdo Messer [44:02]: "We never talked about saying goodbye. She was strong and resilient till the end."

Despite the challenges, Murdo remains committed to honoring Helene's legacy through the ongoing work of the Cobequid Wildlife Rehabilitation Center.

Conclusion: A Tribute to Helene and Birdzilla

The episode concludes with a tribute to Helene Van Donick, celebrating her dedication and the enduring impact of her work. Murdo's story is a testament to love, partnership, and the profound connection between humans and the wildlife they strive to protect.

Glenn Washington [46:48]: "Thank you. If you see a wild animal, even if it's sick or hurt, please do not try and handle it. Call your local wildlife organization for help."

Notable Quotes:

• Murdo Messer [05:16]: "I was lying on the floor playing a Nintendo video game when Helene came downstairs. She asked if she could join, and that's how we started connecting."

• Murdo Messer [16:29]: "It was like jumping in feet first into the deep end. Neither of us had much experience with large birds of prey."

• Murdo Messer [25:45]: "From that moment on, I was the only person who could really handle that bird. It was always a fight."

• Murdo Messer [34:00]: "She knew exactly where she was and what she was doing. It was a perfect release. It was beautiful."

• Murdo Messer [43:52]: "Helene was always thinking of others. Even while battling cancer, she continued to care for the animals at the center."

• Murdo Messer [44:02]: "We never talked about saying goodbye. She was strong and resilient till the end."

Final Thoughts:

"Birdzilla: Mother of Eagles" is a profound narrative that blends personal loss with unwavering dedication to wildlife conservation. Murdo Messer's journey alongside Helene Van Donick offers listeners an intimate glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of caring for some of nature's most majestic creatures, all while navigating the depths of human emotion and resilience.