I arrived early at the Midpines Community Hall for the Birds of Prey Program. I found the room filled with people and had a hard time finding a seat in front. The room was filled and over-flowing by the time the program started. A large group of young children were brought in from El Portal and sat on the floor in front, while adults stood in the back.

The program was sponsored by the Upper Merced River Watershed Council. Cat Krosschell, master falconer and naturalist educator brought three birds with her. Krosschell wore a glove that was attached by a rope to the Peregrine Falcon. The bird wore a fitted leather hood that covered his eyes. The kids and adults alike were captivated by seeing the falcon so close. She removed the birds hood and gave information as the falcon perched on her glove.

Krosschell's Red Tail Hawk was next to make an appearance. She explained that he was still a juvenile and his tail had not yet turned red. The last bird to be shown was Sammy the Great Horned Owl. The size of this bird really had the kids on the floor "hooting" The program ran overtime because the audience asked so many questions.

The mission of the Upper Merced River Watershed Council is to work with individuals and organizations to protect and enhance the natural, economic, and cultural resources of the Watershed through education, community-based projects, responsible planning and stewardship.

For more information on the Merced River Watershed Council go to:  http://merced-river.org/default.aspx


Linda Gast
Email: lindagast@sti.net 
www.goldrushcam.com
www.mariposaspca.org