RAPTOR HOUSE

I had the pleasure of attending a flight demo at Yakima Co-op's Fall Event a few Saturdays ago. All the activities were nicely presented. The fishing pond was a large stand up pool and the fish looked like trout. I'm choosing to focus on Raptor House since my interest is primarily birds. Participants and activities at the fall event were...

• Cabelas                     kids fishing pond
• Cozy Critter Pony Rides
• Yakima Audubon
• Raptor House
• Yakima Valley Rabbit Breeder's
• KXDD live broadcast
• Meals on Wheels for Pets kick-off
• birdhouse painting
• face painting

Raptor House Rehabilitation Center is located in Selah, Washington. Their mission, to preserve the earth's biological diversity and secure the future of bird species in their natural environment. Shannon & Marsha Dalan do this through education and raptor rehabilitation. This center is a 501 (c)(3) organization that was established in 1998. There is no state or federal funding. The center is run on public donations & volunteers.

The raptors in the demo consisted of Blackjack a Harris Hawk who Marsha (in the red shirt) is holding. A Red Tail Hawk. The Red Tail Hawk is a little larger then the Harris Hawk. Timber the Great Horned Owl. A Burrowing Owl and last but not least, Merlot the American Kestrel.

Educational programs are done throughout the year. During the summer months the educational birds can be seen on the last Saturday of the month from 10am-3pm. There is a $6.00 entrance fee. Schools, clubs & other organizations may reserve a time to tour the facility. The raptors are also available to appear at fairs, banquets, weddings & birthday parties.

To learn more about Raptor House visit the website at  http://www.raptorhouse.org/