Monday, March 5, 2012

an update on the little albino turkey vulture



The "little white girl", as she is being called around here, is doing quite well. She has gained some much needed pounds and is rather enjoying her free daily meals of rodent, quail, chicken and beef heart. She snuggles onto her heated perch each night and has been seen bathing in the large water tubby on warm and sunny days. She seems to have picked out her most favorite roosting areas, napping areas and the best places to sit in the sun and preen. She and her "roommate" Doolin are getting along although Doolin is still quite fascinated by her....probably wondering what the heck she is.
This little girl will not be a candidate for release. Most albino animals have compromised immune systems coupled with physical disabilities. It is quite evident that she has a vision problem which is probably why she was unable to migrate south last fall. Her near-sighted vision makes it difficult and dangerous to attempt long flights. We will continue to rehabilitate her well into the spring or early summer before making any decisions for permanent placement.
She is a real sweetie pie and so very cute with her pink eyes, pink talons, pink face and beautiful white and buffy feathers.

Sunday, February 26, 2012

Eagle owl in flight...slow motion

I just never tire of watching this slow motion video...enjoy

Sunday, February 5, 2012

Albino Turkey Vulture

Meet our newest patient...an albino turkey vulture...a very rare bird indeed. This little gal was recently rescued out of the wild by Debra Gibbs and the Tribal DNR in Peshawbestown, Mich on January 30th. She is bone skinny and certainly would not have lived much longer out in the cold. Huge thanks to all who aided in her rescue and transport to Wings of Wonder.
She is recovering quite well and seems so greatly appreciative of her daily free meals and a warm and safe place to sleep. Because of the unseasonably warm weather we are experiencing, I moved her outside into our large 100 foot aviary yesterday with Doolin, our resident turkey vulture. Doolin seems a bit reserved...probably wondering what she is! He intently watches her and follows her, of course from a safe distance. She seems rather uninterested in his "stalking" behavior. I am sure, within a short time, the 2 vultures will be perching side by side. Vultures, unlike other raptors, are quite social and seem to delight in hanging out together. Stay tuned for future updates.

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

BALD EAGLE RELEASE


Wings of Wonder is inviting the public to our first bald eagle release of the year. We will be releasing an adult female bald eagle on Friday, February 3 at 7500 Odawa Circle, in Harbor Springs. This location is the government center of the Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians. The event will begin at high noon....don't forget to bring your camera and please allow enough time to park and get ready. Invite your friends and family...and spread the word to your neighborhood. Everyone is welcome!

Monday, January 16, 2012

Golda, The Wings of Wonder ambassador Golden Eagle

Here is Golda, the Wings of Wonder ambassador Golden Eagle, enjoying a bit of breakfast.


(you may have to cut and paste the above link into your browser or right click and choose "open URL)

up coming Wings of Wonder programs

Due to some glitches we are experiencing with the web site google calendar, I have decided to post some of our upcoming programs as a blog. I apologize for the hassles and inconveniences you may have experienced in your attempt to access the "WOW" calendar......
January 21:
Wonders of Raptors at Crystal Mountain Resort, 6-7PM, Arctic Bay room, open to the public
January 24:
Wings of Wonder raptor presentation for the New Comer's Club, History Center on 6th Street, Traverse City, 7PM
January 28th:
Wonders of Raptors at the Boardman River Nature Center, 1-2PM. Registration is required, call the Nature Center at 231-941-0960 to reserve your spot. Program fees are $6 for adults, $4 for kids, children under 2yrs are free. Don't forget to bring your camera and be sure to arrive early for the best seat.
January 28th:
Wonders of Raptors at Crystal Mountain Resort, 6-7PM, Arctic Bay room, open to the public
February 2:
The Wonders of Raptors, Charlevoix Public Library, 6:30-8PM, Sponsored by St. Mary's Cement, free and open to the public, please no children under the age of 6

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

The Wonders of Raptors

Everyone is welcome!