If you happen to be walking or riding the train behind the MetaZoo, you may have seen the birds of prey weathering in the sun. It is not an exhibit that is open to the general public, but many school children in classes have seen these beautiful birds as well as those in nursing homes, clubs and other organizations that have invited the raptors in for a great learning experience. Some of the young falcons on their first flight, leave the bridge only to end up in the Ohio River.
Rescue has to be made.
Another exciting adventure the Raptor program has undertaken is the propagation of Barn owls. The first hatchlings are about to fledge and they will be followed by telemetry. Last year the Zoo's Raptor Rehabilitation Program cared for 57 birds. One bird was returned to a Falconer. Injured, abandoned and orphaned birds are brought to the Zoo as well as birds recovered by the Raptor Rehabilitation volunteers.