Maggie Haynes was presented with the Volunteer of the Year Award. Haynes joined Audubon EagleWatch in 2017 to learn more about Bald Eagles and get involved in their protection on a local level. She now monitors five nests, collecting important data to help with eagle conservation. She got hooked on eagles and found Audubon Center for Birds of Prey by watching the Southwest Florida Eagle Nest Cam on social media.

Since then her journey has expanded into volunteering in most areas at the Center for Bird of Prey. She began with guest relations, welcoming guests, and answering questions for visitors. Once she officially retired, she became more involved and has now spent time as a clinic volunteer, worked as an education docent, and helped with bird rescues and releases during normal business conditions.

Early during the pandemic while the Center was closed, Haynes stepped up by coming to the Center to work with Ambassador birds to provide enrichment.

Katie Warner, director of the Center for Birds of Prey, presented the award.

“Maggie has been a non-stop powerhouse, helping us with birds in all areas during the pandemic,” said Warner. “She has now helped with virtual events and fundraisers and continues to train with our ambassadors. We are honored she is a part of our team and family.”