Jim Parks, of Wingmasters,  will introduce participants to different types of birds of prey, including hawks, owls, eagles and falcons.  This presentation, which incorporates 5 live birds of prey, 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.

Participants can see live birds of prey up close and learn about the special features these birds have that enable them to be successful predators.

The program is recommended for anyone ages six and up.

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 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 nonreleasable 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 supported in part by a grant from the Georgetown Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.