Tucked away along the shores of Lake Sybelia in Maitland is a hidden Florida treasure – the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey.  It’s not necessarily a step back in time, but it is a representation of a part of Florida some visitors rarely see. The center has been treating, rehabilitating, and releasing raptors since 1979.  But beyond that, it provides an important role in educating the public about protecting these birds and their habitats.

Having lived in the area for more than 20 years, I have to admit I have never visited the center. It’s amazing what you can find in your own backyard when you actually stop and look for it. On the day of our visit, we were greeted by a red-shouldered hawk, sitting peacefully on a handler’s arm.

The hawk is just one of the birds now in residence at the center.  Housed in large enclosures there are peregrine falcons, caracaras, owls and vultures. A casual stroll along a meandering sidewalk provides visitors a chance to not only learn about the types of birds, but also the individual stories of the birds that are now permanent residents. Hali and Tallulah are two of the eagles here, both arriving at the center in the same year but for different reasons.

 

Guidebook provides history of the birds

Although the goal is to release these raptors back into the wild, not all of them can be because of their injuries: paralysis, blindness, puncture wounds and neurological damage – all caused by different incidents. Birth abnormalities also prevent some of them from ever living in the wild.

 

A boardwalk and gazebo extend out over a man-made wetland. From there the Flight Barn is in full view, the place where birds are currently being rehabilitated. A sign indicates what is inside on any given day.  It is not open to the public because the center does not want the birds to get accustomed to humans.

Educational signs are located throughout the property; however, the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey provides educational programs for schools.  And there are also volunteer opportunities for those who want to get involved in the center’s efforts.

The center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  It is closed on Mondays and holidays.

Don’t miss out on a chance to get up close to some of Florida’s most beautiful birds.

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