Wild birds and mammals are initially evaluated when they are brought to the IRC. For example, a starving raptor will have an exposed keel (or breast bone) that is sharp when felt through feathers). Volunteers will also look for obvious signs of injury such as bleeding and broken bones.

Those that need prompt veterinary care are often transferred to qualified veterinarians. There, broken bones are repaired, wings are pinned and other problems treated before the animal is returned to us for rehabilitation.

It is critically important that recovering animals have a quiet, stress-free environment. For this reason, the Illinois Raptor Center's hospital is open only for a yearly open house. Tours are not allowed by law. We are, however, developing on-site educational programs which will allow us to bring classroom-sized groups to other portions of our property.

Animals whose injuries are so severe that they would be unable to survive in the wild are humanely euthanized. Also, state law prohibits us from releasing imprinted wildlife. Imprinting often happens when people keep baby animals for several days before bringing them to the center. Never attempt to keep a wild bird or animal as a pet. It is against the law.

To avoid imprinting, IRC volunteers limit contact with our animal patients. Hawks, falcons and owls are placed with "surrogate parents," permanently-injured, resident birds of the same species which take over child-rearing duties. Food is left in the enclosure, and our surrogates do the rest. Without these special foster parents, it is virtually impossible for people to raise a healthy wild bird of prey.

Only a small percentage of the injured hawks, owls and falcons passing through our center are candidates to join our staff of "Wildlife Ambassadors." These birds have demonstrated that they have the proper demeanor to behave before large crowds and that they will accept training.

Animals reaching their date of release are often moved outside. Hawks and owls build strength by flying back in forth in our flight cage. In some cases, a weighted line, known as a creance, may be used to help birds of prey gain strength. It creates extra resistance much like ankle weights help basketball players train.

Babies and orphans need special care. They require intensive amounts of time and several feedings each day. Did we mention that is also extremely expensive to care for wild babies? Spring and early summer are hectic times at our center. In addition to feedings, volunteers keep cages and the exam room clean. Birds of prey that are flighted may be released gradually from one of our "Hack Towers."