Close Up with Birds of Prey

Hawks, owls and falcons are most frequently seen in the wild, so it's not often you find them in a Grange Hall.  

That's where four birds of prey could be admired this week at the Cheshire Grange at a presentation by Horizon Wings of Ashford. The program focused on the behavior and characteristics of birds of prey as well as their environmental challenges.

Mary Beth Kaeser and her husband, Alan Nordell of Horizon Wings told the audience that recycling helps protect the birds. They said cans, plastic, plastic cups, and fishing lines pose a peril to birds and ground mammals.

The birds on display were:

• a Barred Owl named Emrys 
• a Red-Tailed Hawk named Dakota 
• Chico, a Broad-Winged Hawk
• a Peregrine Falcon named Athena 

Each animal has its own story about how they were injured, rescued, and now cared for by Horizon Wings. 

Cheshire Grange has been active in the Cheshire community for over 125 years through their service projects, agricultural fair, numerous family-oriented activities and special events.   For information on Cheshire Grange, contact Ruel Miller at 203-272-8255.

For more information on the organization, please visit the Connecticut State Grange website at http://www.CTStateGrange.org.

Editor's note: Terri Fassio is the marketing coordinator and public relations co-director for the Connecticut State Grange and Cheshire Grange.