Auburn University Raptor Center

12/25/2025

On behalf of all of us, Aurea wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Auburn University Raptor Center!

12/24/2025

Over the past two months, since the time change, we’ve seen a surge in owl admissions—including Barred Owls and Eastern Screech-Owls—and now an adult Bald Eagle has joined our caseload.

She (weighing in at 10.2 pounds) was found grounded in a field, unable to fly. During her intake exam, our clinicians discovered multiple wounds to her face, wings, and legs. Radiographs didn’t reveal a clear reason for her inability to fly. She’s currently receiving intensive wound care while we continue diagnostics. A CT scan scheduled for next week will help us better understand what’s preventing her from taking to the skies.

This time of year, Bald Eagles are highly territorial as they court, defend nest sites, and prepare for the breeding season. Conflicts between adults—especially over prime nesting areas—can lead to aggressive aerial fights. It’s possible her injuries were sustained during one of these territorial disputes.

With chicks expected in the coming months in our region, every adult eagle plays a vital role in the health of our eagle population.

12/16/2025

🦅 Investing in the Future of Raptor Care

Thanks to the Jerry Ligouri Scholarship from HawkWatch International, we hosted a one‑day raptor medicine training lab here at the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, offering two hands‑on sessions for veterinarians and veterinary students.

Together, we dove deep into raptor medicine — from triage and stabilization to species‑specific care and the unique challenges injured and orphaned birds of prey face.

Why does this matter? Because raptors don’t always make it to wildlife centers first. Many show up at local clinics, and having veterinarians who feel confident identifying, treating, and advocating for these birds can be the difference between life and death.

We’re incredibly grateful for the passion and dedication these future and current veterinarians brought to the lab. Their commitment means stronger support for the raptors in our communities and a brighter future for wildlife conservation.

Here’s to building a network of informed, empowered advocates — one training at a time. 🦅💛

12/14/2025

You’ve heard of Elf on the Shelf. Now get ready for… Stump on a stump!

If you’ve ever attended one of our educational programs or toured the Auburn University Raptor Center, you may have met Stump, our gray-morph Eastern Screech Owl. Don’t let her tiny size fool you. She may only weigh as much as a baseball, but she’s a full-grown adult!
Stump got her name 15 years ago when she was found on the side of the road after being struck by a vehicle. At first, her rescuers thought she was just a stump, but when that “stump” started to move, they realized it was an owl in need of help. She was promptly brought to our rehabilitation hospital for treatment.
Unfortunately, the accident left her with a severe eye injury that made her non-releasable, and the damaged eye eventually had to be removed. Since moving full-time to our Education Department, Stump has become one of our most beloved ambassadors, helping the Raptor Center educate tens of thousands of people through on-site and off-site programs!

12/03/2025

Will you be the one to give Aurea her next favorite toy?
Our golden eagle Aurea loves her Kong toy, thanks to a generous donor! Enrichment items like this keep our raptors mentally and physically stimulated, encouraging natural behaviors and making their days more exciting.
Want to make a difference? Explore our wishlist and help provide the best care for these incredible birds!
🔗 aub.ie/givingtuesday

11/30/2025

As we conclude our 25 Years of War Eagle Flights campaign, we want to extend our sincere thanks. Your support strengthens our mission of conservation, education, and rehabilitation and ensures we can continue caring for the birds that inspire Auburn’s tradition. Every gesture of support—large or small—creates a meaningful impact for the resident and patient raptors entrusted to our care.

We’re grateful for every contribution and every moment you shared with us during this celebration.
Thank you for standing with the Auburn University Raptor Center.

We wanted to share this message of appreciation from our team to you.

11/29/2025

Aurea wanted to let you all know that today is the FINAL day to give to the War Eagle 25 campaign!
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to contribute, this is it. The 25th anniversary of War Eagle Flights is your chance to honor our raptors and the people who make these flights possible.
Your gift today ensures the next 25 years of flights remain uplifting, and every donation made today will be matched by a generous donor, doubling your impact.
Don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference! Help us care for these incredible eagles and continue our mission at the Auburn University Raptor Center.
💙 Donate now: auburngiving.org/auraptor25S

11/29/2025

11/28/2025

11/26/2025