MEET THE BIRDS

LIBERTY

Species: Alaskan bald eagle

Latin name: Haliaeetus leucocephalus

Sex: Female

Native to: Canada and North America

Conservation status: Least Concern

Liberty was born April 24th 1999.

The centre is named after this magnificent bird, she has a wingspan of over 6ft and weighs 11lbs.

Once considered endangered they where taken off the red list in 2007

thanks to conservation efforts and breeding programs.

GERRY

Species: Golden eagle

Latin name: Aquila Chrysaetus

Sex: Male

Native to: Europe, Russia, Africa, Asia and North America

Conservation status: Least Concern

Gerry was born 2015.

The golden eagle is one of the largest birds of prey in England, second only to the white-tailed eagle. They are often seen soaring amongst the hills and mountains of Scotland.

UK population was officially exterminated in 1850 in England and Wales due illegal killing, however due to conservation efforts their population is now at about 500 breeding pairs.

CASPER

Species: Barn owl

Latin name: Tyto alba

Sex: Male

Native to: Europe, Asia, America Africa and Australia

Conservation status: Least Concern

Casper was born 2016.

The barn owl is the most widespread owl in the world occupying every continent except Antarctica.

This owl makes a screeching call and can be seen in open country, along field edges, riverbanks and roadside verges.

Due to barn owls' feathers not being particularly waterproof their hunting times can be affected by the British weather. You may spot these owls hunting during the day, especially after heavy rain showers.

MOWGLI

Species: White-headed vulture

Latin name: Trigonoceps occipitalis

Sex: Male

Native to: Africa

Conservation status: Critically Endangered

Mowgli was one of our fan favourites in our display team, however since 2020 has been paired up with a female in the hopes of successful breeding.

Vultures are known for being scavengers, however the white-headed vultures are more aggressive and will kill and have been seen to kill prey as large as antelope.

This species is listed as being critically endangered. Due to a variety of threats including poisoning, persecution and changes to their ecosystems, the already small population of this species is now declining at a rapid rate.