When we first began giving back to all things regarding wildlife and nature conservation, the behind- the-scenes experience at Audubon Center for Birds of Prey motivated us to do more. Throughout our journey in meeting the team at Audubon Center for Birds of Prey and participating more in bird releases, we realized that there is an unspoken trust within these birds. The trust is solidified by any supporter who witnesses a bird’s recovery and their natural response to the “wings” that support them: the team of hard-working, committed, wise people that keep these birds alive in the world around us.

Our story began while constructing our home in Winter Park, Florida. We noticed some juvenile owls dancing on the ground beneath the existing fence. Our contractor offered to take these owlets to the Center for Birds of Prey; he promptly covered them and moved them into some crates he already had in his truck. After delivering them to the Center, the owlets were rehabilitated—one had an injured clavicle and wing, which was repaired through surgery. The team from the Center returned the owlets to the tree and placed them on a new nesting platform. While the volunteer delivered the owlets to their nest, the mom was screeching loudly and approaching quickly. We watched intently that evening as the mother took care of her young by constantly feeding them. Not only was life restored that day, but nature was restored. It warmed our heart and soul to see such a committed team literally repairing the wings of these owlets.

At the time, this event seemed almost random. Not so random now—we are delighted to support the team here and all it does, but are especially excited to see the new aviary’s finished construction in order to further progress the Center’s mission! Spotlight’s on y’all for making the world a better place!

To support the new aviary, click here.

This article originally appeared in the Summer edition of the Naturalist. To read the full magazine, click here.