Raptor Progam
Saturday August 10th – 11am
Wild Birds Unlimited of Syosset
Join us at Wild Birds Unlimited for a raptor education program!
Meet some of the fiercest apex predators on Long Island living right in our backyards. Get an in-depth explanation of species-specific hunting methods, diurnal versus nocturnal adaptations, and unique survival tactics! Because we share common areas with these creatures, they are susceptible to human-induced threats. Learn how to help conserve these species and meet some of our raptor ambassadors up close and personal!
Animal Ambassadors
Lady Turns 23!
Lady the Red-Tailed Hawk was admitted to our wildlife hospital in 2001 as a juvenile, injured after she was hit by a car. Red-tailed Hawks sometimes fly into roadways in pursuit of prey such as rabbits and squirrels. The car collision caused irreparable damage to Lady’s left eye, requiring complete removal of the eye. Hawks need vision in both eyes to successfully hunt in the wild. Since she was a young bird and had not yet developed a fear of humans, the decision was made to keep Lady at our Center and have her join our team of animal ambassadors. Over the past 2 decades, Lady has met and helped us educate countless children & adults about her species!
Patient Spotlight
Snapping Turtle Hook Removal
This adult Snapping Turtle was in serious trouble when she swallowed a fishing hook. The turtle was brought to veterinary hospital Animal General of East Norwich and their incredible staff took radiographs and performed surgery to carefully remove the hook. The Snapping Turtle was transferred to us for rehabilitation where our staff administered pain medication and antibiotics for a few weeks as the turtle healed. The turtle was housed in a large pool and fed a nutritious diet of fish supplemented with vitamins.
Snapping Turtles will snap if provoked, but generally are not aggressive. Our staff are trained to safely work with such a powerful species and understand how to handle these turtles to keep their stress levels low when they’re in our care so they can heal quickly. After treatment, this prehistoric-looking creature was returned right back where she belongs in the wild.
Photo credit: Animal General of East Norwich
