RAPTOR Inc.
RAPTOR Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of birds of prey via rehabilitation, education, field research and community service. They hold the proper state and federal permits that allows them to rehabilitate approximately 400 birds of prey annually and deliver over 350 educational presentations each year at schools, libraries, senior centers, and other community events. They strive to cultivate respect for nature and inspire conservation action in their community.
Almost 400 raptors are admitted to RAPTOR Inc. annually. Important information is recorded on the raptor’s medical record, including where the bird was found, when it was found, the nature of the illness or injury, and the finder’s contact information. This information makes it possible to contact the finder with progress reports on the bird’s condition, to invite the finder to attend the bird’s release, and to return the bird to its familiar territory (if appropriate.) Information regarding the bird and its disposition is also reported to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in compliance with their state and federal permits.
Raptor conservation is the cornerstone of the mission at RAPTOR Inc. In addition to being the premier site for treating injured raptors in the Greater Cincinnati area, RAPTOR Inc. conducts educational programs to increase awareness of the importance of raptors to our environment. They also participate in field projects to aid in their protection.
The mission of RAPTOR Inc. is the conservation of local birds of prey via rehabilitation, education and field research.
RAPTOR Inc.’s Work
The following are a couple highlights of the impactful work of RAPTOR Inc.
Rehabilitation & Release
Rehabilitation is provided by licensed rehabilitators who receive extensive training under the guidance of Avian and Exotic Veterinarians. Upon admission a complete physical exam is performed and appropriate treatments are initiated. These treatments may include fluid replacement, medications, stabilization of fractures, wound care, and meeting the bird’s nutritional needs. Once the bird is stabilized, veterinary assistance is arranged according to the illness or injury, and appropriate x-rays and lab tests are performed. Depending on the condition, rehabilitation can take hours or it can take months.
Releases are a time to celebrate! It’s the perfect ending to the rehabilitation efforts with the return of the raptor back to the wild. They strive to involve the finders in the release whenever possible.
RAPTOR Inc's Avian Ambassadors are birds that permanently reside at the Raptor Center and assist their educators with the delivery of educational programming. Each Avian Ambassador has some type of disability that prevents them from being able to survive in the wild on their own. They serve as ambassadors for their wild counterparts and help form meaningful connections between people and wildlife, hopefully leading to respect and conservation action.
Ambassadors
Rescue
RAPTOR Inc. admits injured and ill birds of prey from Southern Ohio and Northern Kentucky. We rely on caring volunteers and rescuers to help transport birds in need to our Milford, Ohio facility.
Raptors face many environmental hazards including collisions with vehicles and windows, entanglement in fishing line, kite and balloon strings, and barbed wire, and injuries from predators. They are also vulnerable to infections, starvation, and poisoning from pesticides.
An injured or ill raptor is a wild animal and will likely react aggressively out of fear, pain or defense when approached by people. Handling of these animals can be dangerous, aggravate the illness or injury, and can also kill the animal just from the stress of being captured.
RAPTOR Inc. provides formal education programs, informal programs, and on-site programs. One of their formal raptor education programs is called Beaks & Talons! This is an approximately 45 minute presentation featuring three live avian ambassadors. Up close and personal, you are able to see and learn about the adaptations which make birds of prey supreme hunters of the sky. Tailored to specific age groups, the program describes raptor diets, habitats, nesting habits and their role in the food web, as well as other interesting topics. Touchable artifacts (such as wings, feet, pellets, etc.) and recorded vocalizations will be available.
Education
Join us in supporting RAPTOR Inc.
75% of this month's donations will go towards this month's partner
This month and every month, Wild Boyz Photography will be partnering with one nonprofit. 75% of any donations that we receive during the month will go to the nonprofit. Help RAPTOR Inc. to rescue, rehabilitate, and release birds of prey in Ohio and Kentucky.