News & Press Releases
Birds of Prey Alight at ICS
On Thursday, January 28th, Indy Parks and Recreation brought its Predatory Bird Program to Irvington Community School. Students were treated to an hour-long session – up close and personal – with these native Indiana birds of prey, all of which can be seen in the air space above Irvington (that is, if you're on the lookout and lucky enough to spot one). Bird-handlers Dawn Thomas and Doug Sheroh put on quite a show with the cooperation of their partners: a barred owl, red-tailed hawk, kestrel, and turkey vulture. Several parents joined the students and staff for event. At the end of each session (K-4 then 5-8 students), the kids were allowed to walk by the birds – within several feet of them – and observe these unique hunters from the skies. Thanks, Indy Parks, for a wonderful show!
1. The barred owl haunts woodland areas, and can be identified by its distinctive hooting that sounds like "who-cooks-for-you, who-cooks-for-you-all." As with all owls, the barred owl is a "stealth fighter," its wings emitting no sound as it swoops in on its kill.
2. The red-tailed hawk is Indiana's largest, and can often be seen along highways perched upon trees or even landing on medians to snare prey such as mice, rabbits, or squirrels.
3. Farmers often refer to the kestrel, a member of the falcon family, as a "sparrow hawk." It's one of the most colorful raptors in the world. Here in Indiana, kestrels are quite common but are often mistaken for mourning doves perched upon telephone lines.
4. Turkey vultures have a face only a mother could love! During the spring, summer, and early fall, this migrating large black-feathered bird is often seen in small groups soaring high above the ground as it scans below for carrion – dead animals. Turkey vultures have a phenomenal sense of smell and can detect roadkill, for example, miles away.
5.The K-4 students were fascinated and delighted by the birds of prey that visited the ICS.
