Raptors are meat eating birds that generally hunt with their feet. While all raptors tear flesh with their beaks, it is the talons on their feet that are used as the primary hunting tool to seize and kill prey. Most raptors capture live prey or scavenge carrion for food, a few even supplement their diet with insects.

The 500+ different species of raptors worldwide range in size from the 5 inch Elf Owl to the 30 pound Andean Condors that have wing spans longer than some small cars (11 feet)! The wings of raptors are specially evolved for each individual species' preferred hunting technique.

In the United States, state and federal permits from fish and wildlife services are required to possess any bird that falls under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. This would include all species of raptors.

Because raptors are unique in many ways, the care and rehabilitation of these birds has become specialized. Their care requires distinctive training and skills in categories such as the capture, handling, housing, medical treatment and feeding of raptors.

If a raptor is able to be rehabilitated for release back into the wild, we will spend weeks, months, and sometimes up to a year caring for it. Fortunately we are supported by generous veterinarians that donate much of their time and skills when x-rays, surgery or specialized medical treatment are necessary. Click here to learn how you can help us care for these magnificent creatures.