Native raptors of Central Texas coming to Marble Falls, March 5
Screech owls are just one of the many native raptors of Central Texas. Courtesy photo from the Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society
The Highland Lakes Birding and Wildflower Society is bringing live raptors– like owls, kites, hawks, and more– to Marble Falls on March 5 for a special presentation on the predatory birds of Central Texas. While the event is an official meeting for the society, it is also open to the public.
The actual presentation is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 5, at Lake Shores Church, 700 U.S. 281 in Marble Falls. Prior to the presentation, the society will meet at 9:30 a.m. and hold its regular business meeting.
There is also a pre-meeting bird walk planned for 8 a.m. on the same day at Johnson Park, 230 Avenue J in Marble Falls. The group will meet near the playground, weather permitting.
The raptor presentation will feature live birds that have been rescued and deemed “unreleasable” due to debilitating injuries. They are kept with certified wildlife rehabbers, who use them for educational programs throughout the state.
Leading the presentation will be Ed Sones, a veteran wildlife rehabber that has cared for over 10,000 animals in his own home, including 4,000 birds from more than 120 different species. He is currently on the Austin Area Wildlife Rehabilitation Board and a member of Austin Wildlife Rescue.
Other handlers assisting in the presentation are Desiree Lavine and Gerrie McCall. Lavine is a raptor trainer and handler at Austin Area Wildlife Rehab and McCall is a local wildlife rehabber based in Burnet County.
Visit the HLBWS website and follow on the society’s Facebook page to keep up with the group’s calendar and to learn more about joining.