Audubon Afternoon: Raptor Senses and Abilities
Secret Garden Birds and Bees will share some of the amazing things we’ve learned about raptor adaptations – from vision and hearing to beaks and talons.
Photo: Red-shouldered Hawk, Evelyn Garcia/Audubon Photography Awards
Original program date: June 2, 2024
Did you know that barn owls are the only raptors with a pectinate talon – like a tiny comb – to preen their feathers? You probably know that eagles have excellent eyesight, but do you know how their vision is tested? Why don’t hawks fall off their perch while they sleep? Is it because one side of their brain sleeps while the other is awake to hold on – or is it something else? Do you know why owl eyes are more forward facing than hawk eyes? It might not be what you think! Do you know why screech owls sometimes have smelly poop? Secret Garden Birds and Bees will share some of the amazing things we’ve learned about raptor adaptations – from vision and hearing to beaks and talons.
Audubon Afternoon: Raptor Rehab with Liz Dennison
Liz Dennison will join us to talk about what rehabbers actually do to help injured or sick birds recover, how they give orphaned raptors the best chance of survival in the wild, some of the more interesting cases they’ve seen, and the physical and emotional toll of being a rehabber.
Photo: Red-shouldered Hawk, Peter Brannon/Audubon Photography Awards
Original program date: June 4, 2023
This year’s topic is “Raptor Rehab,” presented by Secret Garden Birds and Bees. Liz Dennison will join us to talk about what rehabbers actually do to help injured or sick birds recover, how they give orphaned raptors the best chance of survival in the wild, some of the more interesting cases they’ve seen, and the physical and emotional toll of being a rehabber. Liz will also give practical information about what you can do if you find an injured wild animal. She will be bringing several live raptors for this program! A great opportunity to see birds of prey up-close.