HawkTalk Issue 94 Summer 2023

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HAWKTALK SUMMER 2023 ISSUE 94

SAM BALD EAGLE After making his debut in our flying displays last year, Sam the Bald Eagle is a superstar in this brand new addition to our timetable. After working closely with Bird Team members Cedric Robert and Mike Riley, Sam has become well-adjusted to flying over Reg’s Wildflower Meadow since his arrival at the Trust in 2021. His powerful flights and impressive wingspan are glorious to see as he takes to the wing and flies between our two new 8m tall towers. His journey between the towers takes him right above the heads of our audience – it’s just stunning to see him so close. With the iconic white plumage around his head, strong wing-beats and distinct call, it’s not hard to see why Sam is a highlight of Masters of the Sky.

BOE EGYPTIAN VULTURE Boe, our Egyptian Vulture, is one of our most striking birds. Not only does she have possibly the funkiest hairdo of anyone on the team (and there’s some stiff competition there!) she’s also one of our highest flyers. Using the warm summer thermals to gain height, Boe can reach thousands of feet in the air before diving into Reg’s Wildflower Meadow at incredible speeds. Sometimes, she’ll even show off with a barrel-roll on her descent! Her cheeky personality is well-known, and it’s not uncommon for the commentator of the show to be seen hiding amongst the audience as Boe makes a beeline to sit on their shoulders! Boe is a unique bird to see take to the skies. Her spectacular flight is amazing to see as part of the grand finale of Masters of the Sky – something you definitely won’t want to miss!

FLO CRESTED CARACARA You may have met (and heard) our Striated Caracaras, but Masters of the Sky is Flo’s time to shine! Flo the Crested Caracara came to live at the Trust in 2008 as a young bird, and has a spot in this exciting new display demonstrating her nest-building skills! As is typical of Crested Caracaras, she’s very comfortable moving around on the ground, and eagerly shows off how she can use materials around her to create a nest. These birds spend much time foraging and hunting on the ground in the wild, but they will take flights low over the ground and up to high perches to search for food. She’s an incredibly elegant and intelligent bird and has really won over our visitors with her beautiful flight and skilled handiwork!

Come along and see our Masters of the Sky for yourself every day at 2pm this summer as part of our jam-packed daily timetable!