New England Birds of Prey at CCMNH!

Birds of prey are also known as raptors, and they are hunting birds characterized by hooked beaks and powerful grabbing feet armed with sharp talons. Raptors can also boast the best eyesight and the sharpest hearing in the animal kingdom. Raptors include hawks, falcons and owls, and this presentation, which incorporates 7-8 live birds of prey, gives an overview of these different categories. The program is designed to explain predation, the birds’ place at the top of the food web, their different hunting adaptations and their status in a rapidly changing world. Because many birds of prey are declining in number, this presentation also features one or more of the endangered raptors that WINGMASTERS cares for, and explains why these species face an uncertain future.

Julie Anne Collier and Jim Parks of Wingmasters are dedicated to increasing public understanding and appreciation of North American birds of prey. They are both licensed raptor rehabilitators based in Massachusetts. Most of the birds they rehabilitate can ultimately be released back into the wild, but in some cases the birds are left permanently handicapped. Julie and Jim are further licensed to provide a home for these nonreleasable raptors, and to use them for educational programs.  Join us for this fantastic program and a rare chance to see these powerful, beautiful, and magnificent birds up close!