Park to host Birds of Prey program

by Oct 16, 2015Happenings0 comments

 

Known as “The Eagle Lady”, Mager has been working with raptors for over 35 years. (NPS photo)

Known as “The Eagle Lady”, Mager has been working with raptors for over 35 years. (NPS photo)

Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials invite the public to a special birds of prey program presented by Doris Mager on Sunday, Oct. 25 at 10a.m. The program will be on the porch of the Oconaluftee Visitor Center.

Known as “The Eagle Lady”, Mager has been working with raptors for over 35 years. She has cared for over 80 injured eagles and hundreds of other raptors, housing up to 36 birds at one time. In 1983, she established an educational and research group called Save Our American Raptors (SOAR).  Part of her research work included conducting aerial surveys of bald eagle nesting sites for scientists studying the population and habits of birds in the wild.

Mager continues to travel throughout the U.S. doing educational programs with a 34-year-old great horned owl known as E.T., screech owl, and American kestrel. Mager’s program provides a unique opportunity for visitors to see raptors up close as they learn about features and habits of these fascinating birds.  After eight years of providing programs at in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this will likely be Ms. Mager’s last appearance as she will be moving away from the area.

Info: Oconaluftee Visitor Center 497-1904

– NPS