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New England Birds of Prey

Learn about New England's birds of prey with Wingmasters!

Birds of prey are also known as raptors. They are hunting birds characterized by hooked beaks and powerful grabbing feet armed with sharp talons (the word raptor comes from a Latin word that means "to seize"). Raptors can also boast the best eyesight and the sharpest hearing in the animal kingdom. Raptors include hawks, falcons and owls. This presentation incorporates 6 live birds of prey that are all native to New England. 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. 

WINGMASTERS is a partnership of two people dedicated to increasing public understanding and appreciation of North American birds of prey. Julie Anne Collier and Jim Parks are both licensed wildlife rehabilitators based in Massachusetts. Together they care for injured birds of prey at their private center in Leverett, 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 non-releasable raptors, and to use them for educational programs. Since 1994 WINGMASTERS has presented over 10,000 programs at schools, libraries and museums throughout New England.

This program is for adults only. Registration is required by calling 508-799-1232. Program will take place at the Worcester Senior Center, 128 Providence Street, Worcester.