Weaving the future
November 11, 2024
Anthony Baffo
A person releasing a peregrine falcon
Co-founder, Dr. Redig, releases a peregrine falcon during the peregrine reintroduction project from 1985 -1999. | Photo by TRC staff

The Raptor Center (TRC) is weaving a network that is unparalleled in the field of wild bird medicine. Throughout 50 years of hard work, TRC has built a reputation as a leader in raptor rehabilitation and continuously demonstrates raptor expertise through triumphs such as its role in saving the bald eagle and peregrine falcon from the brink of extinction. Now, it’s setting its sights on a new challenge: piloting a formal global network of support for veterinarians and rehabilitators to work together in saving birds of prey worldwide.

Throughout 50 years of hard work, TRC has built a reputation as a leader in raptor rehabilitation and continuously demonstrates raptor expertise through triumphs like its role in saving the bald eagle and peregrine falcon from the brink of extinction. Now, it’s setting its sights on a new challenge: creating a formal global network of support for veterinarians and rehabilitators to work together in saving birds of prey worldwide.

A legacy of conservation

Julia Ponder holding a Galapagos Hawk
Dr. Julia Ponder holds a Galapagos Hawk while leading research to save their declining population in 2010 | Photo courtesy of Julia Ponder

TRC’s legacy is deeply rooted in the successes achieved in collaboration with its partners. Currently, TRC is increasing efforts to band and take blood samples from wild raptors. Together with amazing partners such as Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Raptor Resource Project, and the Midwest Peregrine Society, TRC is giving raptors the ability to share their stories now and in the future.

TRC’s efforts have always been about more than just one species or one region. Staff members have taken this spirit of collaboration to the Galápagos, where their expertise helped protect the fragile population of Galápagos hawks. They’ve deployed this framework globally, leading biosecurity protocols to keep wildlife hospitals open during the avian influenza outbreak.

But TRC’s work is far from over. Raptors—keystone species and vital indicators of ecosystem health—continue to face significant threats. Looking ahead, TRC is focused on building a global network to ensure raptors everywhere receive the care they need.

A critical frontier

Today, TRC’s bird’s-eye view stretches across continents, where the need for wildlife veterinary medicine is growing rapidly.

In Thailand, for instance, veterinarians are struggling to keep pace with the demand for care, especially in the fight against illegal wildlife trafficking. In Australia, rehabilitators are seeking support as they work to protect vulnerable bird populations. Meanwhile in South America, legislative efforts threaten to ban raptor ambassadors, removing a crucial tool for education and conservation.

The cultural, spiritual, and social contexts of these regions are as complex as they are essential to the survival of these species. Local veterinarians, rehabilitators, and ecologists are passionate and dedicated, but they need the same support system that TRC has forged over the past 50 years. Every consultation, training, and project TRC has the privilege to participate in is a two-way street of learning. The knowledge we have to share, and what we do here won’t always work in other locations. Together, professionals in raptor care and medicine are becoming more adaptable in their work.

A group of people stand in front of the Kasetsart University Raptor Rehabilitation Unit
Left to right: Dr. Victoria Hall, Kasetsart University Raptor Rehabilitation Unit's Ratiwan “Rati” Sitdhibutr, Dr. Dana Franzen-Klein, Dr Neil Aziz, andPiya Eiamcharoem | Photo by Piya Eiamcharoem

At the forefront of raptor care, TRC is well positioned to extend its network globally, sharing knowledge and expertise that can empower raptor guardians to prosper.

Strengthening global connections

As TRC embarks on its next 50 years, it is reopening its international student program, which has been a cornerstone of the center’s global impact. From the 1990s through the early 2000s, this program brought international students to TRC’s hospital, where they gained hands-on experience and advanced their expertise. These students have since become leaders in their own countries, elevating the standard of raptor care worldwide.

Kasetsart University Raptor Rehabilitation Unit in Thailand
Kasetsart University Raptor Rehabilitation Unit in Thailand during TRC's visit in the winter of 2024. | Photo by TRC staff

One of the earliest international residents, Dr. Jalila Abu, now the deputy dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Universiti Putra Malaysia, exemplifies the lasting impact of this program. Abu has trained students from an array of countries, preparing them to practice and teach veterinary medicine in their home nations.

This past summer, TRC relaunched the international program, welcoming Dr. Ratiwan “Rati” Sitdhibutr, one of the two staff members from the Kasetsart University Raptor Rehabilitation Unit in Thailand. After members of TRC’s team spent a week of observation and exchange at their clinic, Sitdhibutr was invited to a three-month exchange at TRC, where he will gain invaluable experience to take back to Thailand. This partnership is just the beginning of a renewed commitment to building a resilient network of raptor stewards.

Dr. Dana Franzen-Klein, Dr. Rati Sitdhibutr, and Pinit Pankeaw examine a Himalayan vulture
Dr. Dana Franzen-Klein (left), Dr. Rati Sitdhibutr (center), and Pinit Pankeaw (right) examine a Himalayan vulture. | Photo by Dr. Victoria Hall

Expanding the network

As its network expands, TRC also is innovating new ways to support raptor care worldwide. A prime example is its Raptor Academy program, which provides a comprehensive selection of learning opportunities for those working with raptors under human care.

Australian Raptor Care and Conservation logo

In collaboration with Australian organizations, TRC is developing a pilot course tailored specifically for Australian rehabilitators. This course focuses on the critical first 48 hours of care, a period that dramatically increases a bird’s chances of survival and release back into the wild. By considering the unique laws, limitations, and regulations of Australia, TRC is creating a resource that will be evergreen, serving as a lasting tool for rehabilitators in that region.

The work with Australia extends beyond education. As the continent braces for the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza, TRC has been a key advisory expert, helping to prepare for the virus’ inevitable arrival.

Every day, TRC staff are on call to support veterinarians and rehabilitators around the world, providing timely advice, sharing orthopedic and care management knowledge, and leveraging 50 years of expertise to help those in need.

Building for the future

In order to remain at the forefront of raptor care, stay up-to-date on emerging techniques and technologies, and make the most impact globally, TRC is investing in its hospital’s capacity and resources. TRC is committed to never turning away a raptor care partner seeking help. By building supportive tools, platforms, and partnerships, TRC is ensuring its network of raptor care professionals can continue to grow and thrive.

A black-shouldered kite
A black-shouldered kite native to Australia and a raptor of focus in TRC's pilot course. | Photo by Angela Jansz

The future of raptor conservation depends on collaboration—sharing knowledge and resources across borders. TRC is not just responding to the challenges of today; it is preparing for the challenges of tomorrow. With a global network of support, TRC is weaving a safety net for raptors that will catch them when they fall, provide a protective barrier against threats, and safely reduce the momentum of the powerful forces that endanger their survival.

Together with its supporters, partners, and collaborators, TRC can ensure that raptors continue to soar—not just in the skies, but in the hearts and minds of those who are dedicated to their protection.

Raptors in this article