The Raptor Center has been in operation since 1974 and serves over one thousand injured birds each year. However, helping birds of prey can be seen as somewhat secondary compared to the 1,200 education programs that the center provides on an annual basis.
Victoria Hall, Executive Director for the Raptor Center on the University of Minnesota's St. Paul campus, encourages the public to keep an eye out for birds in need, but not to intervene. "That is the role of wildlife rehabilitators," Hall says. During fledgling season, birds may appear injured, but human intervention can be harmful. "We need to leave wild birds wild especially if they don't need help."
If you come across a bird that you feel is injured, contact a wildlife rehabilitator to guide you through an assessment. Be prepared to provide a description and photos if possible.
Contact information can be found online for the Raptor Center and Wildwoods.
