Chris Mesi, an artist at Houndstooth, said he thought the event was a unique way to fundraise for the nonprofit.
“Getting a tattoo seems like something that is just for yourself, but it is very sweet. People are coming in because they want to help animals, which is different than getting a regular tattoo,” he said.
Esther Coonfield receiving a flash tattoo by artist Francesca Decker. (Chelsea Lubbe/WHYY)
Douglas Horn, the shop’s manager, said the event always attracts a great crowd and is an opportunity to give back and get cool art tattooed.
“It was really interesting the intertwining of the artists and the nature aspect of things. I love seeing the creativity of the artists, and how they put it together for a show like this,” he said.
Gianna Ross, president of the Greater Philadelphia chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, said it was important for animal care professionals to support one another and exchange information.
“They [rescue] are the only ones in Pennsylvania that can take care of neonatal bats, and our bats need help,” Ross said.
The rehab sees over 300 bats a year. The animals are considered a highly stressed species and have specific needs.
“We try our very best and try to get as much funding as we can to help as many bats as we can,” Stronsick said.
Bunny came into care during the arctic freeze last winter after sustaining frostbite to both her ears. As an echolocating species, Bunny is unreleasable. (Chelsea Lubbe/WHYY)
In past years, the rescue has received upwards of $1,500 from the tattoo fundraiser, which covers about half the cost to feed the bats for the year.
“We are a small organization compared to other wildlife rehabilitation centers because we specialize in just bats, so our funding is only through private donations. Things like this where you can get something fun out of it and contribute to an organization are really amazing,” Stronsick said.