The Raptor Center needs your help naming two rescued baby owls integral to their educational programs.
Table of Contents
Short Summary:
- Name suggestions open between July 8-12.
- Voting occurs from July 15-17.
- Names will be unveiled on July 18.
Two new adorable residents have joined The Raptor Center’s educational team—baby great-horned owls, who need your help getting named. Having sustained permanent eye injuries that prevent their return to the wild, these baby owls are now learning to be ambassadors for public education about owls and their importance.
One of the young owls, expected to be a female, exhibits a sweet temperament and has distinctive orange-tipped feathers. Owl Number 2, likely a male, despite his missing eye, maintains a curious nature and is adapting well to his new role. “These owlets have overcome incredible odds,” according to the experts at The Raptor Center.
A Community-Driven Initiative
The campaign to name these juvenile owls is open to the public, inviting creative name ideas from July 8-12. Interested participants can submit their suggestions via this link. Once the suggestions are collected, the top names will be posted for voting from July 15 to midnight on July 17, and the announcement of the chosen names will follow on July 18.
“It’s a unique way for people to feel personally connected to wildlife conservation efforts,”
says one spokesperson at The Raptor Center. This initiative isn’t new; previous residents have been dubbed Bubo, Tufts, Whisper, Twig, and Echo via similar contests.
Meet the Owls
To help spark ideas, the center has shared some facts about each juvenile. Owl #1, the likely female, is gentle and sports uncommon orange-tipped feathers. Owl #2, a probable male, is adapting despite his eye injury.
Did you know that great horned owls, known for their prominent feathered tufts and large yellow eyes, can live up to 20 years in the wild if they survive their first year? These magnificent birds, often labeled the ‘tigers of the sky’, are apex predators feeding on creatures ranging from mice and rabbits to smaller owls and crows.
Join the Raptor Center’s Mission
The Raptor Center in St. Paul specializes in the medical care, rehabilitation, and conservation of these remarkable birds.
“We focus not just on rescuing,”
the organization declares, “but also educating the public about these feathered predators and inspiring conservation efforts.”
Learn more about what makes raptors like these owlets so special. Discover how to identify them in the wild and meet other educational birds through various programs. The Raptor Center hosts events suitable for all ages, making it an excellent family outing or educational trip.
In Case of an Injured Raptor
If you ever come across an injured raptor, The Raptor Center offers guidance and assistance. It’s as simple as calling 612-624-4745, available daily from 8 am-8 pm.
“Rapid intervention can make a crucial difference,”
urges one of their vets.
The center relies heavily on the dedication and effort of its volunteers. They offer numerous opportunities for community members to get involved based on their skills and availability. Helping out doesn’t just mean manual work; it also means contributing valuable time and care.
Fundraising Efforts
Running such an essential service requires resources. That’s why The Raptor Center is hosting TRC’s Baby Shower, encouraging donations to support the care of rescued baby raptors. Thanks to generous donors like Ann and Tom Schwalen, any contribution made today will be matched.
Besides naming these owlets, your involvement can take other forms: volunteering, donating, and spreading the word about the crucial work happening at The Raptor Center. They’re battling numerous challenges, from lead poisoning to injuries, and more research is always key to tackling these issues.
Mark your calendars and be part of this unique naming journey. Who knows, you might come up with the perfect name that these owlets will carry as they educate and captivate the public for years to come. Because sometimes, a worthy cause needs a personal touch—yours.
