Gabbert Raptor Center

The Gabbert Raptor Center, located in the heart of the University of Minnesota's St. Paul campus, is a renowned facility dedicated to the conservation, education, and research of raptors. Established in 1974, the center has been a pioneer in the field of raptor rehabilitation and conservation, providing a safe haven for injured and orphaned birds of prey. With a strong focus on education and community outreach, the Gabbert Raptor Center has become a beloved institution, inspiring a new generation of raptor enthusiasts and conservationists.

History and Mission

The Gabbert Raptor Center was founded by Dr. Patrick Redig, a renowned raptor expert and veterinarian, with the goal of providing medical care and rehabilitation to injured and orphaned raptors. Over the years, the center has grown to become a leading institution in the field of raptor conservation, with a strong focus on education, research, and community outreach. The center’s mission is to advance the conservation of raptors through innovative research, education, and community engagement, while providing a safe and nurturing environment for these magnificent birds.

Raptor Rehabilitation and Conservation

The Gabbert Raptor Center is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a large flight cage, a surgical suite, and a laboratory for diagnostic testing. The center’s team of experienced veterinarians, rehabilitation specialists, and educators work tirelessly to provide medical care and rehabilitation to over 500 raptors each year. From eagles and owls to hawks and falcons, the center cares for a wide range of raptor species, with the goal of releasing them back into the wild. The center also collaborates with other conservation organizations and wildlife agencies to advance the conservation of raptors and their habitats.

Education and Community Outreach

The Gabbert Raptor Center offers a range of educational programs and activities, designed to inspire a love of raptors and promote conservation awareness. From guided tours and interactive exhibits to educational workshops and lectures, the center provides a unique and engaging learning experience for visitors of all ages. The center also partners with local schools and community organizations to develop curriculum-based programs and outreach activities, reaching thousands of students and community members each year.

Research and Conservation Initiatives

The Gabbert Raptor Center is committed to advancing the conservation of raptors through innovative research and conservation initiatives. The center’s research program focuses on a range of topics, including raptor ecology, behavior, and conservation biology. The center also collaborates with other conservation organizations and wildlife agencies to develop and implement effective conservation strategies, addressing key threats to raptor populations such as habitat loss, climate change, and human-wildlife conflict.

The center's conservation initiatives include the development of conservation plans for endangered raptor species, the creation of habitat restoration programs, and the implementation of community-based conservation projects. By working together with local communities, conservation organizations, and wildlife agencies, the Gabbert Raptor Center is helping to protect raptor populations and preserve their habitats, ensuring the long-term survival of these magnificent birds.