NEW YORK—On Wednesday afternoon Parks & Recreation Commissioner, Adrian Benepe, announced the 10th annual wild bird extravaganza that will be held this Sunday, October 5.
The Extravaganza will feature thirteen species birds from around the world and participants will have the opportunity to learn about birds of prey from many experts including Urban Park Rangers and falconers.
Hawk Creek Wildlife is an accredited wildlife sanctuary and non-profit group that will have professional rehabilitators on site to answer questions as well. Having the chance to see these predatory birds flying and interacting with their handlers will truly be a thrill.
After his announcement, Benepe freed a rehabilitated American Kestrel into Central Park in front of an audience of grade school children.
The kestrel that was released was found in a Brooklyn residence in a cage with another caged kestrel nearby. “She was dehydrated and had been illegally caught,” said Sarah Aucoin, the Director of Urban Park Rangers. “When they found her, she wasn’t injured but had been improperly cared for so she needed minimal rehabilitation such as getting fluids and the proper nutrition. They also had to make sure the bird hadn’t imprinted onto any humans,” Aucoin added.
When she was released, the raptor soared to the tallest nearby tree, paused for a moment, and then flew out of sight.
The American Kestrel (also known as the Sparrow Hawk and El Cernicalo Americano) is the smallest falcon living in New York and is at home in the city. It can be found in all 5 boroughs subsisting on a diet of large insects, mice, and sparrows. They use the same perches repeatedly so if you see one perching, there is a good chance that you can see it again at the same spot. They nest in cornices of apartment buildings and in boxes placed near abandoned landfills.
Kestrels are declining in the northeast and are difficult to study in an urban setting. If you find an injured or immature bird, contact the New York City Animal Care and Control (NYCACC). The NYCACC works with local wildlife rehabilitators who are licensed to handle birds of prey.
The event will take place in Central Park’s East Meadow (Enter at 99th street and Fifth Avenue) on Sunday from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. The event will be free for all ages.
