The Education birds of the Raptor Rehabilitation Project
Because of various injuries, these birds are non-releasable but are able to live comfortably as permanent residents with the Raptor Rehabilitation Project. These residents represent a variety of species and travel on our public Education Presentations:
Agnes the Eastern Screech Owl (Megascops asio)
Agnes came to the Raptor Rehabilitation Project from Adair County after tumbling from a barn nest just days after hatching. Raised by well-meaning humans, she imprinted early and can no longer live in the wild. Instead, she has found her calling as a feathered educator. A rufous morph Eastern screech owl with striking red tones, Agnes is tiny but mighty, known for her curious gaze and calm presence. She is often mistaken for a toy until she blinks.
Ebenezer the Barred Owl (Strix varia)
Ebeneezer “Eb” was brought to the Raptor Rehabilitation Project on Dec. 4, 2010, after being found down a few days earlier along the median of a highway. From damage caused by a possible car collision, Eb does not have enough vision to be able to survive in the wild. Eb was trained as an education bird and is now a permanent resident.
Gretu the Red Tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)
Originally named Patrick Henry, Gretu earned her new name — the Missouri tribe’s word for “hawk” — after joining the education team. Found grounded in Boone County with injuries that limit her long-distance flight, she’s now a strong and steady ambassador who prefers short hops to migration. Known for her striking eyes and signature raspy call (the same iconic sound Hollywood borrows for bald eagles), Gretu brings plenty of Missouri pride to every appearance.
Grimm the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura)
Grimm was brought to the RRP in September of 2015 after being found down on the side of the road. From the damaged caused by the head on collision, Grimm does not have enough vision to be released and has since become an education bird.
Jacob the Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)
Brought to RRP on Nov. 28, 2009, as an immature hawk, Jacob was discovered to have a chronic fracture in the left humerus(wing) but was otherwise healthy. Jacob took to training very well, is comfortable around people, and is now an education bird.
Minnie Pearl the Great Horned Owl
Minnie Pearl is a Great Horned Owl who was found injured as a young owlet in the fall of 2017. Minnie Pearl was found down near a road in Audrain County, Missouri. It was found that Minnie Pearl had a right elbow luxation. Due to this luxation, the wing was unable to heal correctly and Minnie Pearl is unable to fly. Being otherwise healthy and maintaining a good temperament, Minnie Pearl is now an educational ambassador and a permanent resident.
