A Raptor Weekend

Last weekend, was filled with raptors!

On Friday, the wildlife staff took a field trip down to the University of Minnesota for a lecture on Apex Predators but on by The Raptor Center. There were 2 speakers: Mark Martell who spoke about recent tracking research on birds of prey and Dave Mech who spoke about his wolf research. Each speaker taught me a thing or two that I can use when I teach. Both were really interesting but I preferred Mark Martell's program a bit more. It was fascinating to hear about data that had just been received in the past month and what it means for the species as a whole.

View from the observation deck at the National Eagle Center

On Saturday, my parents met me in the cities. After a fantastic Panera stop, we headed down to the National Eagle Center. I think working with raptors and in the education field has jaded me a bit when it comes to visiting other centers. I did enjoy looking at some of the education displays; in particular one where visitors could lift a replica eagle. My favorite thing was looking through the scope for eagles - and actually finding several perched in trees!
It was really nice to get off site for a bit, hangout with the family and learn a few things!!