Library patrons in all three local locations – Clearwater, Becker, and Big Lake – had some unusual visitors this summer; raptors from the U of MN Raptor Center.

The interactive presentation-style program featured four species of raptors that call Minnesota home; a red-tailed hawk, an American kestrel, a great horned owl, and a bald eagle. 

During the presentation held in Clearwater, the Raptor Center representative explained what makes a raptor and shared numerous facts with the large crowd, which was made up of bird lovers of all ages. 

She shared the history of how the center came to rescue each of the four raptors, none of which were able to be released back into the wild. In between, members of the crowd asked questions about each bird and about raptors in general.

The specialized hospital at the Raptor Center admits around 1,000 birds of prey each year with the goal of rehabilitating and releasing them back into the wild. The center trains future veterinarians and wildlife rehabilitators, conducts research into raptors and the environment, and educates and inspires people with their educational programming.