I do volunteer work at a wild life rehabilitation center here in Saint Johns County, FL. Any native wild animal that is hurt is brought here to be nursed back to full health and released. If they can't be released they are licenced to keep them and are used in educational programs. Right now they have 5 Bald Eagles, 4 otters, barn owns, great horned owls, screech owls, all types of hawks, sea birds and turtles. They have had bobcats, bears, skunks (no fun at all!), vultures etc. Twice a year, as a fund raiser, it is open to the public. No charge to get in but a donation is appreciated. There is NO government funding of any kind. They depend on donations and the purse of the lady that runs the place.
Today was one of the 2 days it was open to the public. So I spent the day showing people around and answering questions. Oh, almost forgot. The reason the public can't come in anytime they want is because these animals might get accustomed to people and not fear them. It was a long day and I'm hurting from being on my feet all day but what the heck, in a couple of days I'll be fine again. The best part is the kids! They get so excited!
Terry
This is a pair of real clowns! The one on the left is a Great Horned Owl that just stares at people. The one on the right is a Barn Owl and hoots all the time. In the wild the one on the left would kill and eat the other one. But someone, illegally, raised these to together as pets. Now they are inseparable buddies. They will never be released because they don't know how to hunt for food.
This is another perminate resident. He flew into something and had severe damage to one wing and will never be able to fly again. It's a Swallow-Tailed Kite. I hand feed and can hold this raptor. It has a 3'+ wing span.
The fox eats dog food, only a certain type (not brand), and fresh meat.
Owls are beautiful