Whispering Pines Treehouses, a hundred acre farm in Jonesburg, Missouri, was selected by the The World Bird Sanctuary, 125 Bal Eagle Ridge Road in Valley Park, Missouri, as a safe location to release a great-horned owl, whom we’ve named Whisper. The owl, found by a citizen as a juvenile, was rescued by a volunteer from the World Bird Sanctuary where he was raised until he developed the hunting skills needed to survive in nature on his own.
Thirteen year World Bird Sanctuary volunteer, Barbara Slepecky, brought the owl to Whispering Pines and carefully selected the best location to release Whisper knowing he would nest somewhere closeby. The release was recorded and can be found on our website as well as the World Bird Sanctuary’s website. https://www.worldbirdsanctuary.org
The World Bird Sanctuary, nestled on 305 acres of serene Missouri hardwood forest, offers a delightful blend of seasonal shows, nature trails, and picturesque picnic areas. It’s adjacent to Lone Elk County Park and the scenic Chubb Trail, making it a perfect spot for a day trip. This is an amazing non-for-profit organization that does not receive federal funding.
The sanctuary is home to a diverse array of non-releasable birds, and it features expansive outdoor avian exhibits. The on-site Kathryn G. Favre Foundation Raptor Hospital specializes in rehabilitating injured birds of prey. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, educational programs, and up-close encounters with exotic raptors. Seasonal events, such as the Owl Prowl, provide unique experiences for guests.
- Bald Eagles: Majestic birds of prey known for their impressive wingspan and striking appearance.
- Owls: Various species, including the Great Horned Owl and Barn Owl, known for their nocturnal habits and silent flight.
- Hawks: Red-tailed Hawks and other hawk species, which are skilled hunters.
- Falcons: Peregrine Falcons, known for their incredible speed and agility.
- Vultures: Turkey Vultures and Black Vultures, which play a crucial role in the ecosystem by scavenging.
- Parrots: Colorful and intelligent birds, including macaws and cockatoos.
- Songbirds: Various species that add to the sanctuary’s vibrant atmosphere.
The sanctuary also features seasonal shows, guided tours, and educational programs that allow visitors to learn more about these incredible birds and their conservation.
The sanctuary volunteers respond quickly to help injured birds, often times driving to various locations and sometimes walking through fields or other areas for rescues. Barbara Slepecky was seen one-time on the side of a local highway rescuing a raptor struck by a vehicle then driving it to the sanctuary for immediate care at their clinic.
Seasonal Shows such as World Eagle Day is an opportunity to see eagles in action during flight demonstrations, learn about their habits, have photo opportunities, play themed games and make crafts.
In the spring, Fete du Feather Gala is an opportunity to enjoy cocktails, exquisite dining, and intimate encounters with our raptor ambassadors and have unique photo opportunities all in support of the sanctuary’s global efforts to protect these birds and their habitats.
There are numerous education programs and opportunities for all ages at the Sanctuary. These include Feathers & Scales, Fledge Wings, Raptor Basics, All About Eagles, Raptor Awareness, All About Owls, Creatures of Myth & Legend and various Virtual Programs. Details can be found on their website or by emailing camp@worldbirdsanctuary.org
Interested in a unique camp for your children? Check out Feathered Friends (ages 6-8), Totally Radical Raptors (ages 9-12), Wilderness Explorers (ages 9-12) or Conservation Crusaders (ages 9-12) which take place at the sanctuary during the month of June.
Teenagers can help out too!!! The sanctuary has Junior Keepers (ages 13-15) which can serve as interns! They offer a 12 week internship program which prepares aspiring animal caretakers for a career in the animal world as they obtain valuable hands-on experience with animal husbandry, behavior training, enclosure maintenance, records keeping, wildlife rehabilitation, and educational programming and outreach.
Two-time volunteer of the year, serving more than 1,000 hours each year, is also an instructor for the summer camps as well as an educator during Owl Prowls.
Check out the World Bird Sanctuary for a fun family educational day!!!!
