HELENA – Can a bird look happy? Probably not. But the raptors that recently moved into their new homes at FWP's Avian Walkway certainly look unruffled. Their new enclosures are similar to an efficiency apartment, with an indoor space and an outdoor space. Visitors can walk by and gawk, while the raptors either mind their own business or look curious at the company.
On a recent sunny and somewhat warm afternoon, the American kestrel sat on its outdoor perch and chased a fly with its eyes. The peregrine falcon bobbed its head up and down as some visitors complimented it on its unique colors. And the ferruginous hawk stretched out its wings to soak up the sun. Meanwhile, other species, such as the nocturnal owls, enjoyed the privacy and shade of their indoor space.
"They have freedom of choice," said Ali Pons, the Montana WILD wildlife center program manager. "It's cool seeing them problem solving – figuring out what they want to do."
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.
"That public interaction is new to them," Pons said. "They show the same curiosity and surprise as the people who visit them."
The residents at the Avian Walkway include eagles, hawks, falcons and owls. These raptors are FWP's ambassador birds.
"These are birds that have permanent injuries and can't be rehabilitated," said Lee Rademaker, Montana WILD program manager.
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.
"These are not pets," Rademaker said. "They are still wild animals."
In addition to the 3,600-square-foot walkway, the recent project at Montana WILD features 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 and through support from the Outdoor Legacy Foundation.
"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. "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.to 5 p.m.