Owls are probably more misunderstood than any other kind of bird. These are hunting birds, yet their sharp beaks and talons are partly
hidden under feathers. Owls have more and softer feathers than other birds, and this unique plumage gives them a plump, rounded look. Add an upright posture and huge eyes set in front like ours, and you have what looks irresistibly like a small, bemused person wearing a fur coat. In reality, owls are superbly adapted nocturnal hunters. This program shows how owls use their specialized powers of sight, hearing and flight to survive and thrive. A wealth of fact and folklore about these masters of the night explains the natural and unnatural history of owls. A variety of live North American owls provides the focus of this presentation.
For the birds' well-being and for the safety of the audience, our raptors are handled only by Julie and Jim, and are under our control at all times. They are never flown for demonstration.
PLEASE NOTE: THIS PROGRAM IS STRICTLY FOR AGES 6 & UP
This program takes place at the 1870 Town Hall. 12 Woodward Ave. Berlin, MA 01503

WINGMASTERS is a partnership of two people dedicated to increasing public understanding and appreciation of North American birds of prey. Julie Anne Collier and Jim Parks are both licensed wildlife rehabilitators based in Massachusetts. Together they care for injured birds of prey at their private center in Leverett, Massachusetts. Most of the birds they rehabilitate can ultimately be released back into the wild, but in some cases the birds are left permanently handicapped. Julie and Jim are further licensed to provide a home for these nonreleasable raptors, and to use them for educational programs. Since 1994 WINGMASTERS has presented over 10,000 programs at schools, libraries and museums throughout New England.