Saturday, July 17, 2010

World Bird Sanctuary

After our hike we drove on over to Lone Elk Park and the World Bird Sanctuary.

We had been to both places about a yr and a half ago (in the winter) - so it was nice to actually be back during the summer time.

Lone Elk Park is a park that has - you guessed it - some elk. Also some bison . We drove along for quite awhile before we saw the bison all huddled together. They really are immense creatures and their heads are rather frightful looking. Not something I'd like to meet up with on a dark night on a lonely trail.

The elk all appeared to be female, and at rest - so little excitement there.

The World Bird Sanctuary "The World Bird Sanctuary rests peacefully on 305 acres of Missouri hardwood forest, next door to Lone Elk County Park and Chubb Trail. We are open daily from 8am - 5pm, and closed only on Thanksgiving and Christmas. The World Bird Sanctuary features free seasonal shows, nature trails, educational programs and picnic pavilions. Free entry and parking. Live displays of Bald Eagles, Owls, Hawks, Falcons, Vultures, Parrots, Reptiles and much more!"

We happened to arrive around "lunch time" and actually saw the workers throwing in carrion for the birds. It was very fascinating to watch the eagles and vultures tear and eat their lunch. Their beaks and talons are not something you'd like to meet up with.

We were also in time for the free bird show - approx. 30 min show of 5 birds with discussion about each bird and flying demonstrations. There was even a demo. of a recycling raven...a few volunteers in the audience hold up empty soda cans - the raven will fly to the volunteer, grab the can and drop it in the recycling bin :)

2 comments:

CanadianGrandma said...

I wonder whether we could teach the crows to recycle...hmmm...I do know that they are very intelligent birds.

Anonymous said...

Sounds very interesting!Although the term "birdbrain" is often used as a putdown,most birds are very clever.The Egyptian vulture throws stones to break into ostrich eggs,even when raised in isolation and haven't had any opportunity to see another bird doing it. Grandpa