I was getting over a virus today, so I didn't go to day care. So Gran took me to the Lake MacBride Raptor Center to see the birds. The Raptor center is affiliated with the University of Iowa and is nestled into a gorgeous wooded glen adjacent to Lake McBride, about 10 minutes north of our house. The center is dedicated to the rehabilitation and research into the birds of prey of the area, including hawks, kestrels, eagles, and, of course, OWLS!
It turns out that anyone can go visit just about any time. There is no visitor center, no security gate, no ticket booth, and no concession stand. Just a large wooden cage that allows with birds to fly around and a park ranger that patrols the area to make sure no one pokes their finger 
through the chicken wire to get bit off by these very beautiful but very powerful animals.
through the chicken wire to get bit off by these very beautiful but very powerful animals.Gran and I walked to the raptor center's main cage along a scenic nature trail. It did not take long to find the first of many owls, mostly the great horned owl. I was so excited! I almost forgot the rule of not sticking fingers into the cages! The birds were majestic and absolutely fascinating.
Best of all, the center funds its work by donations and sponsorships. Get this: I CAN ADOPT AN OWL! Isn't that the coolest thing ever? Daddy will make a donation to the center and they will send me adoption papers, information, and a photograph of my owl. YAY!
2 comments:
Hi Sophie!
What a great find- the Owl that you adopt will be one lucky owl! Can't wait to find out what you decide to name him or her.
Love,
Ada
Sophie, thank you for letting me take you to visit the Raptor Center. I was astonished at how beautiful the area is and how the birds were so accessible.
One thing I liked were the signs near the owl cages that said, "SHHH, Owl sleeping". Love, Gran
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