Seven-year-old Isabella Cicchelli places in top 10 of national wildlife competition

MISSAUKEE COUNTY, Mich. (WPBN/WGTU) — One of Northern Michigan’s youngest wildlife advocates continues to gain national recognition.

Seven-year-old Isabella Cicchelli of Missaukee County competed with tens of thousands of other kids across the country in the Junior Ranger Competition.

Isabella is a key part of the Cicchelli Second Chance Rescue and Exotics, a nonprofit sanctuary run by her family.

Isabella’s compassion and confidence have earned her a significant following, with more than 90,000 fans on social media.

She shares daily videos educating kids and adults alike about wildlife and proper exotic animal care.

The competition wrapped up July 24.

According to a Facebook post by Isabella’s mom, she finished in 8th place out of 80,000 kids who participated in the competition.

Isabella raised more than $20,000 for the National Wildlife Federation, according to the family.

The first place winner is expected to be announced Friday.