25-05-2010

All week we look forward to Saturdays – it’s completely different to our day jobs. The physical work of cleaning out the aviaries and being in close proximity to the birds of prey is pure enjoyment. We have more than 60 birds at the centre – owls, hawks, falcons and eagles so there is an endless amount of tasks to carry out. Being complete novices when we first started on our volunteering journey at the centre, our expectations at the time was mucking out in the aviaries, we did not expect to have ‘hands-on’ interaction with the birds. So the first time we held a bird – a falcon – we were bowled over to be so close to a beautiful bird that was capable of reaching speeds of up to 150 miles an hour.

At first we were so squeamish about the thought of having to pick up pellets (regurgitated bones and feathers in a neatly formed ball) and casts. By about week three, we weren’t too bothered about picking it up though and to this day, we still wear gloves! It certainly brings humour to the job, so too does feeding time when handling dead chicks, mice, rabbits, rats and quail.

Autumn and winter have brought new experiences; breaking ice in the water baths, frozen water hoses, change of birds’ diet and the way in which they are housed, and watching the little owls growing from small bundles of fluff with big talons to developing their adult plumage. At the back end of the winter, it is time to give the aviaries a last thorough clean in preparation for the breeding season. That includes collecting branches, twigs and foliage for the birds to use as nesting material, and then sitting back and waiting for the magic…

Over time, our knowledge has increased. We are able to provide more support to staff which ultimately increases our self confidence. We have learnt about the importance of weight management, helped trim beaks and talons and repair feathers, manning and casting. We are now regularly involved with the flight displays, helping with the owl walks and birthday parties.

So far, there have been many highlights including observing the female Bald Eagle being manned for the first time, the Cara Cara being re housed, flying a hawk for the first time, building a nest platform for the Golden Eagles and White-Backed Vultures, passing a Level 1 exam in bird handling, and the most unforgettable was having the privilege of holding the female Bald Eagle.

Gail and Carol
Volunteers at The Birds of Prey Conservation Centre – Beamish Wild


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