At The Raptor Center (TRC), the mission to educate and inspire future generations is embodied by a team of more than 25 ambassador raptors. This past summer, two new members joined the ambassador team.

Timber and Odin, two young great horned owls, have found a second chance at life at TRC. As both juveniles make their way through “ambassador university,” they’ll have training sessions, enriching housing, fresh food, and expert medical care.

While their arrival comes at a time when the relevance of live exhibits is being re-examined, TRC remains committed to empowering its ambassadors as champions for conservation education. The ambassadors are not exhibits; they are survivors of the challenges faced by wildlife and the need for community action to ensure the health of our shared environment.

The work of education ambassadors such as Timber and Odin is crucial to the future of conservation. These birds play a pivotal role in connecting the public with wildlife, helping to foster a love and understanding that is essential for effective conservation.

Through global outreach, TRC continues to share expertise for the ethical and responsible care of education ambassadors, ensuring that their welfare is prioritized while maximizing their impact on conservation efforts.

TRC staff believe live education birds are essential in inspiring the public to protect the environment and the wildlife within it. Seeing a live raptor up close can spark a lifelong fascination with the natural world, particularly for younger generations. With community support, TRC will continue to provide these incredible birds with the care they need to thrive. In turn, they help safeguard the future of conservation.

Timber’s trauma to triumph

Timber arrived at TRC in early May after an unfortunate tumble from her nest. She was admitted with fractures in both wings and small but stable cataracts in both eyes, likely caused by the trauma of her fall. While her fractures healed, the cataracts left her unable to hunt effectively, making her unfit for release back into the wild. However, Timber’s gentle temperament and eagerness to learn quickly made her a standout candidate for the ambassador program. She has since embraced her new role, showing a keen curiosity and a unique beauty marked by an orange tinge on her feathers.

Odin’s ocular outcome

In late March, Odin, a very young owl, was brought to TRC after falling from his nest and sustaining severe injuries, including trauma to his left eye. TRC’s expert veterinarians acted swiftly, removing the damaged eye and nursing him back to health. Although Odin’s vision loss would prevent him from surviving in the wild, his inquisitive nature and willingness to interact with staff made him an ideal ambassador candidate. Now, Odin is adjusting to life in TRC’s education mews (enclosures), where his playful spirit and boundless energy have already made him a favorite among the team.