FAQs

What happens when you get called for a rescue?

When we get a call, the first thing we do is decide whether or not the call is for us. If it is for a raptor, that is hawk, eagle, owl, falcon or kite, it is a bird we are licensed for. If it is a vulture or heron it is one we are also licensed to handle them until they are flight cage ready. We try to determine if the bird really needs us next. Many raptors sit on the ground eating for hours if undisturbed. We ask questions to make sure that it is an actual problem. Then we try to get the person to drop a laundry basket or box over it if possible, or meet us with it if it is in that weak a condition. Most of the time we end up going out and picking it up from where it is. We do not, however, go out unless the person stays with the bird. We tried that for years and never find the birds where people saw them. Once we get a bird, we take it to our favorite vet, and then if possible, to our hospital. We care for the bird until it is ready to go back to the wild or is determined as permanently injured. If possible we release it, or re-home it.

How is it you have an eagle?

Our Eagle, Beanca has been with us since 1969. She was permanently injured and has been in our care predating the current laws. Additionally, Beanca is a Steppe Eagle. that means she is not a US eagle, but a Russian one. Because of her species the laws about her are much different, and we do not have to adhere to all of the bald eagle rules. We are even able to sell her molted feathers as long as we make sure the purchaser has proof of origin of the feather.

Can I touch the bird?

Federal law actually prohibits us from letting the audience touch the birds. If we let you touch the bird, we lose our licenses and all the birds have no place to go. so the answer is No.

Can I have a bird as a pet?

No, all wild species are protected under the Migratory Bird Act. You cannot possess one without a license.

How do I get a license?

Licenses require a recommendation from 2 currently licensed people, and they require that you study under them for minimum 100 hours within the past year under one of them before recommending you for a license. Licenses are issued by both the state and federal governments, and possessing a bird may require several licenses - one as a rehabber and one for the bird, depending on it's purpose.

Can I volunteer with you?

Yes you can, but you likely will not. We are very strict about animal care, and most people do not like to follow all of our rules. We keep the animals welfare safety and security as our top priority. Volunteers needs are not at the top of our list. So you can imagine that we are hard on volunteers...

Where do you get your birds?

The birds we have at our refuge are both rehab and educational birds. Rehab birds are birds that are injured and once they heal we will release back into the wild. Educational birds are birds whose injuries make them unable to survive in the wild, but otherwise healthy. They are vet checked and licensed for educational shows. Educational birds will stay at the refuge the rest of their lives.