Registration is NOT required but is always appreciated!

Native Americans revered birds of prey for their majestic appearance as well as for their hunting prowess. To invoke the spirit of these powerful predators, Native peoples followed the ancient tradition of wearing or carrying bird of prey feathers. They also admired the subtle beauty of raptor feathers, from the black-and-white tail feathers of juvenile golden eagles to the wing feathers of hawks and falcons, patterned with arrowhead-shaped markings. The strong connection between raptors and Native Americans suggested this program. It combines 5 LIVE birds of prey with authentic artifacts, many of museum quality, and both explains and shows how different Native American cultures transformed natural materials into objects of beauty and drama. Crafts displayed at this program range from shields and headdresses to clothing and jewelry. 

About our presenters:  WINGMASTERS is a partnership of two people dedicated to increasing public understanding and appreciation of North American birds of prey. Julie Anne Collier and Jim Parks are both licensed wildlife rehabilitators based in Massachusetts. Together they care for injured birds of prey at their center in Leverett, Massachusetts. Most of the birds they rehabilitate can ultimately be released back into the wild, but in some cases the birds are left permanently handicapped. Julie and Jim are further licensed to provide a home for these nonreleasable raptors, and to use them for educational programs. Since 1994 WINGMASTERS has presented over 10,000 programs at schools, libraries and museums throughout New England.

For the birds' well-being and for the safety of the audience, our raptors are handled only by Julie and Jim, and are under our control at all times. They are never flown for demonstration.         

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This program is funded by a grant from the Essex Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.