Program areas of The Bird Rescue Center are focused around two primary efforts.

The Rehabilitation Program includes all activities relating to the rescue and treatment of birds that are injured, orphaned or sick. Related to this are release activities and the housing and training of a small number of non-releasable birds that become part of our educational programs. Our rehab program is primarily supported by donations and a number of small grants.  To learn more about how these programs operate in detail see our volunteer section.

Through our Education and Community Outreach Programs we interact with children and adults, providing vital information about local ecology, the significance of human impact on the environment and the birds that share it. We are often accompanied by our ‘educational ambassadors’, those hawks, owls, and vultures with permanent disabilities that make them non-releasable. They work now to help their wild cousins by educating people about native bird species, their adaptations and their natural history. They can inspire people to live more willingly with their wild neighbors so abundant in Sonoma County.

• Presentations for School Groups and Community Organizations These are age-appropriate and may include a story with visuals for younger children, a slideshow and in-depth discussion for older youngsters and adults.  We review what to do if you find a baby bird and some simple actions we can all take to help the birds. Usually two of our educational birds are part of the presentation. Through increased awareness we hope to foster respect for our rich natural heritage.


• Public Lectures
  From time to time The Bird Rescue Center sponsors lectures on ornithological topics.  For example, in our lecture series Natural History of Raptors and Husbandry Techniques is presented as part of our raptor handling training and is also open to the public.

The Bird Rescue Center is partly funded by donations and fees charged for educational programs.  Fees from school and public presentations help offset the cost of caring for resident birds, as well as our rehabilitation programs. We ask for a donation of $2.00 per person with a minimum of $55 for each group.  The program may be conducted at the Center or at your site.  Teachers and community groups are invited to contact us for details or to arrange a presentation for your group.

• Community Events
  Throughout the year look for Bird Rescue Center volunteers and our “Educational Ambassadors” at many local events from farmers markets throughout the county to the annual Sonoma County Fair. For more information on up-coming events see our News/Events section or contact us at the Center.

HISTORY

BOARD of DIRECTORS