The Raptor Project
An outstanding array of eagles, hawks, falcons and owls has won the rapt attention and hearts of enthralled audiences throughout the nation.
Jonathan Wood, master falconer and wildlife rehabilitator, has assembled a collection of feathered predators that is unrivalled in scope and size. Operating from two home bases in New York’s Catskill Mountains and the Texas Gulf coast, Wood and his Raptor Project tour constantly along with wife Susan and daughter Rachel, in a large RV that serves as home, office and traveling bird exhibit.
The real stars of the presentation are the birds themselves, charismatic creatures with saber curved beaks and talons that command respect and rivet attention. Although many of the flock have permanent handicaps barring their re-entry into the wild, these flaws are hard to detect. Some of the birds indeed faced euthanization at crowded wildlife centers across the country and have now been tamed and trained as charming ambassadors of their species and the environments they inhabit.
Wood’s entourage now includes raptors from every habitat on the planet including Arctic, Desert, Rainforest, Wetlands, Prairie, Woodlands and Tundra. The majority of these birds dwell in North American environs, yet some exotic species originate in Europe, Africa, Asia, Iceland and South America. They range in size from small falcons and owls weighing 2-3 ounces to majestic eagles with 7 and 8 foot wingspans. Recent additions include the endangered Aplomado falcon and Crested Caracara.
Wood predicts, “21st century Americans will lead busy lives with little time left to spend in the wilderness and exploring the natural world. We bring some of the most breathtaking predators found in the world within arms length of an enthusiastic audience. Our presentations
take you on a wilderness expedition, a raptor safari.”
Jonathan Wood has trained and handled raptors for almost four decades and his honed skills have helped him produce an award winning program and exhibit that is seen each year by millions... up close and personal. His entertaining style, contagious enthusiasm and humor have earned him accolades from top wildlife professionals and the national media. He is a tireless lecturer and performer producing nearly 500 programs annually in major cities across America.
Fairs, festivals, expos, schools, colleges, nature centers and museums are regular stops on most road tours yet Wood and the birds are often seen in magazines, national television, documentaries and movies.
Jonathan Wood is also a wildlife photographer, specializing in digiscoping and is a sponsored member of Nikon’s Pro -Birding staff.
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