In the Idaho desert, just south of Boise, lies a sprawling complex that serves as home to 22 very special ambassadors. These ambassadors are birds of prey, and they serve as a bridge between humans and nature, helping people better understand how to care for raptors and other flying creatures in their natural environment.
The newest member of this esteemed group is Salix, a baby barn owl that has already captured the hearts of visitors with its small, scruffy appearance. Despite being just a few weeks old, Salix is already teaching visitors about the importance of caring for birds in the wild.
Recently, Stephanie Ashley, the curator of birds at The World Center for Birds and Prey, and Tate Mason, the center’s director, spoke on Idaho Matters about Salix and the other avian ambassadors at the center. Through their work with these majestic creatures, they hope to educate the public about the role they can play in preserving and protecting them.