They're not homing pigeons, by any stretch of the imagination.
But they do return to the North Okanagan time and time again, and for good reason.
The Allan Brooks Nature Centre is again hosting birds of prey from the Raptors Centre in Duncan, on Vancouver Island.
"It's one of our most popular events, bringing visitors a rare opportunity to witness majestic birds of prey up close," said Cheryl Hood, Allan Brooks nature centre manager.
Hood was on hand with Raptors Centre staff members Alexandra Goguen and Morgan Bryson for the official, er, 'launch' of the birds' visit. The birds of prey are at the centre until June 25.
"We are a bird of prey and conservation facility based out of Duncan, and we do tons of education, the goal is conservation through education," said Bryson. "We bring the birds of prey closer to people, so people walk away with a greater appreciation for them."
Vega, a Harris' hawk, was the star Friday morning, June 20, flying to and from fence posts and tree branches, before landing safely on the gloved wrist of a visitor.
"The Harris' hawk is primarily from the southwestern United States, and it's a very cool species of raptor," said Goguen. "They are one of the truly social raptors."
A great horned owl was also brought out for the Friday morning visit. There are six species of raptors available for the public to meet.To get tickets to see the raptors, or for more information about the nature centre, visit abnc.ca.
