Thursday, March 12, 2009

SkyWatch Friday: Merlin release

This photo was taken back in October up at Hawk Ridge in Duluth, MN. The photo was taken by a Hawk Ridge volunteer, I kind of had my hands full, as I released a merlin falcon that I had adopted.
This was one of three birds that I adopted up at Hawk Ridge in the fall of 2008. The adoption program is a way that a normal every day person, off of the streets, can get the chance to hold on to a wild raptor for a few seconds and then let it fly free up into the sky. It is a great experience and the fee that you pay helps to fund all of the great education programs and studies of the Hawk Ridge Observatory.

16 comments:

Judy said...

Cool idea!! I would certainly adopt a raptor in exchange for holding it for a minute!!

Gill - That British Woman said...

stunning photo.......

Gill in Canada

Trish ~ ♥ ~ said...

What a great experience.

Maalie said...

Let's hope the Merlin survives successfully!

Anonymous said...

Beautiful shot and what a great project to be part of.

Photo Cache said...

Oh wow, that was some experience.

EG CameraGirl said...

Sounds like a fun yet worthwhile project. The best kind. ;-)

Rob Ripma said...

Awesome! It is great to see that they like to get everyone involved. Hopefully that will lead to a better understanding by the general public of these magnificant birds of prey!

SandyCarlson said...

What an exciting post! Thanks for the scoop.

Brad Myers said...

I am sure that was very exciting, I always enjoy your bird photographs.

Naturegirl said...

What an amazing experience I can imagine the emotion! Great photo..I can read your body language..freedom mighty one!

Rose said...

I would like to be able to hold a raptor! Something about them has always given me great joy.

Jane Hards Photography said...

Very envious again, flaconry is on my list of to do things. Excellent photography.

vincibene said...

Fantastic shot in the right moment!

Unknown said...

This is such a noble cause that you are contributing to. Your blog is is full of these raptor images. Congratulations.

I also like the way you have adopted your theme to fit into sky watch

Janie said...

What a beautiful, uplifting (pun intended) photo. Must feel great to know you helped that raptor fly again.