The Center maintains a group of 16 non-releasable raptors (primarily hawks, owls and falcons) for use in educational programs and community outreach events. These are usually birds that have recovered from an injury but have sustained permanent damage, making them incapable of surviving in the wild.
Participants in this program have a uniquely rewarding opportunity to closely work and interact with birds usually observed only from a distance. Volunteers undergo rigorous hands-on training over several months, covering not only the care and safe handling of these still-wild birds but also the study of migration, avian anatomy, bird identification and other topics commonly part of our public presentations. Once they become competent in necessary handling skills, volunteers are eligible to participate in our Educational Programs with the public.
For more information on training for the Raptor Handling and Education programs: download this flyer. You can also view photo galleries of our Education Ambassadors and a collection of kid’s art sent to BRC following field trips to the Center.