Colorado State’s Raptor Program Open House, Kestrel Release Aug. 29

Colorado State University’s Rocky Mountain Raptor Program will release several rehabilitated American kestrels back to the wild as part of its open house from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 29.

At 1 p.m. the kestrels, which have been brought back to health with minimal human contact so that they can survive as wild birds, will be set loose.

As part of the open house visitors can tour the center, located behind Colorado State’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital at 300 W. Drake Road, and learn about the center’s work with injured birds of prey.

The staff, which consists almost entirely of volunteers, will present nonreleasable (permanently injured) birds available for adoption through the Adopt-a-Raptor Program and discuss their behavior and characteristics.

Birds on display will include a bald eagle, golden eagle, peregrine falcon, merlin, long-eared owl, saw-whet owl, red-tailed hawk and great horned owl.

Volunteers also will explain and learn about the volunteer program, environmental education presentations and public outreach exhibits.

Raptor gift items will be available through the center’s gift shop. Programs are designed for families, and refreshments will be served.

For more information about the Rocky Mountain Raptor Program open house, call (970) 491-0398.