HELENA – More than 70 people gathered at Montana WILD last week to celebrate the opening of the Avian Walkway and new flight barn. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks' Director Christy Clark and Montana's Outdoor Legacy Foundation Executive Director Mitch King joined several donors and volunteers for the event. Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte made it the last stop on his 56-county tour.
"This project marks a successful, multi-year collaboration between FWP, Montana's Outdoor Legacy Foundation and individual and business donors," said Sara Meloy, FWP's education bureau chief. "Tuesday really was one big celebration of this collective achievement."
From the walkway, the public can get an up-close view of eagles, hawks, falcons and owls. These raptors are FWP's ambassador birds. Staff works with them to educate over 10,000 visiting members of the public and over 8,000 students each year. Visitors learn about conservation and the important ecological role of birds of prey, including pest and disease control.
Before the new facility was completed, the birds were either in small enclosures inside another building or in mews where they didn't have as good of a view of the natural environment. The walkway provides daily enrichment opportunities for the birds with exposure to sunlight, wind and natural sights and sounds – as well as the chatter of visitors.
The total project cost of $1,065,000 yielded the 3,600 square foot Avian Walkway and a 1,160 square foot flight barn to support FWP's bird rehabilitation and release efforts. The buildings were funded by donations from individuals and businesses, the Montana Tourism Development grant program and the Nongame Wildlife Account.
"The Avian Walkway provides an unrivaled up-close look at Montana's amazing birds of prey," Meloy said. "Our hope is that our visitors leave with a new appreciation for these remarkable birds and a commitment to help steward populations of wild birds and their habitats."
The Avian Walkway is located at Montana WILD, 2668 Broadwater Ave., and is free and open to the public from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. The adjacent Education Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.