Jonathan Wood, master falconer and wildlife rehabilitator, has assembled an outstanding array of eagles, hawk, falcons and owls that is unrivalled in scope and size. Operating from two home bases in New York’s Catskill Mountains and the Texas Gulf coast, Wood and his Raptor Project tour constantly in a large RV that serves as home, office and traveling bird exhibit.
Jonathan Wood has trained and handled raptors for almost four decades and his award winning program and exhibit is seen each year by millions… up close and personal. His entertainment style, contagious enthusiasm and humor have earned him accolades from top wildlife professionals and the national media. He is a tireless lecturer and performer, producing nearly 500 programs annually in major cities across America.
Your chance to see them is right around the corner as part of New Jersey Audubon’s Cape May Fall Festival October 23 – 25. The Convention Hall will be open Friday from 12 to 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A number of birds will be on display at all times, and there will be special “shows” three times daily: Friday at 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.; Saturday at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.; and Sunday at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. In addition to the Raptor Project, Convention Hall will be filled with artists, international travel companies, optics companies and activities for kids. Admission is FREE and there will be a FREE tote bag for the first 850 visitors.
Wood’s entourage includes raptors from every habitat on the planet including Artic, Desert, Rainforest, Wetlands, Prairie, Woodlands and Tundra. The majority of these birds are North American species, but his feathered friends also include several exotic species that originate in Europe, Africa, Asia, Iceland and South America. They range in size from small falcons and owls weighing two to three ounces to majestic eagles with seven- and eight-foot wingspans. Recent additions include the endangered Aplomado Falcon and Crested Caracara.
For more information, contact Lillian Armstrong or Rene Buccinna of New Jersey Audubon’s Cape May Bird Observatory at lillian.armstrong@njaudubon.org or rene.buccinna@njaudubon.org.