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The S.A. National Bird of Prey Centre has several branches around the country,
most of which are in Gauteng and Mpumalanga. The centres undertake rehabilitation of
injured or sickly birds, as well as running captive breeding programmes.
The Free State branch visited Laddsworth on Monday 27 August, and flew four birds for
us, including two owls, a Lanner Falcon, and a magnificent African Hawk Eagle.
At the end of the display, the presenters brought out Toscha, a fully-grown male cheetah
being used at the centre's captive breeding programme. It was a fantastic morning for both
staff and pupils alike. A link to the centre's website is included at the foot of the page.
Have a look at some photos below...
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Above left: Scar, an African Hawk Eagle rescued from Muthi dealers showing a characteristically intense stare. |
Above right: A young Lanner Falcon, protecting its "food" from the handler.
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Above left: A barn owl flown by the handlers.
The fine, speckled feathers on both its chest and its wings diffuse sound, as well as providing camouflage, thus assisting with its hunting. |
Above right: A Spotted Eagle Owl, whose soundless flight amazed the children.
And just look at those eyes! (Please avoid using flash photography near birds of prey whenever possible, so as to avoid eye damage.) |
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Toscha the Cheetah having a quick drink to slake his thirst |
Erin was a little nervous at having her back to Toscha, but the latter was totally unconcerned. |
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