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The Raptor Project brings birds of prey to Sauquoit students

Story Created: May 11, 2010 at 4:20 PM EDT

Story Updated: May 11, 2010 at 5:53 PM EDT

SAUQUOIT, N.Y. (WKTV) - Eagles, hawks and owls had local elementary school kids saying "oh my!" on Tuesday as the master falconer visited Sauquoit Valley Elementary School for "The Raptor Project."

Jonathan Wood travels all over the country teaching kids about food chains, habitats and adaptation, and Tuesday was the third time Wood has performed in Sauquoit.

Sauquoit Library Media Specialist Jody Hildreth said that the presentation fits right in with what fourth graders are learning in the classroom, but that the hands on experience teaches so much more.

"Our library is unique," Hildreth said. "I have a lot of dead birds. I have a lot of things I can show kids, but seeing it alive, like the barn owl flying around in here....the kids can actually not hear the bird fly, with how silent it was. It makes a bigger impression than me telling them an owl flies quietly."

The birds at Tuesday's presentation ranged from small falcons and owls weighing two to three ounces to eagles with seven to eight foot wingspans.

Wood's entourage includes raptors from every habitat on the planet, including Arctic Desert, Rainforest, Wetlands, Prairie, Woodlands, and Tundra. The majority of these birds dwell in North American environments, yet some exotic species originate in Europe, Africa, Asia, Iceland, and South America, Wood said. Recent additions to his collection include the endangered Aplomado Falcon and Crested Caracara.

"21st century Americans will lead busy lives with little time left to spend in the wilderness and exploring the natural world," Wood said. "We bring some of the most breathtaking predators found in the world within arms length of an enthusiastic audience. Our presentations take you on a wilderness expedition, a raptor safari."

Wood has trained and handled raptors for almost four decades, and his honed skills have helped him produce an award-winning program and exhibit that is seen each year by millions, up close and personal. His entertaining style, contagious enthusiasm and humor have earned him accolades from top wildlife professionals and the national media. He is also a tireless lecturer and performer, producing nearly 500 programs annually in major cities across America.

"They're learning about food chains, different habitats, and animal adaptations," Hildreth said. "So, this just fit in perfectly with our fourth grade curriculum."
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