L81. Audubon Center for Birds of Prey
SiteID: E81 (E54 old)
Region: East
County: Orange
Nearest City: Maitland
Phone Number: 407-644-0190
Website: L81. Audubon Center for Birds of Prey
Amenities: Restrooms, Entrance fee required, Good for beginners, Best time of day: Both morning and evening, Recommended length of visit: a few hours
Habitats: Lake/Pond/Impoundment
Description:
Located in Maitland on Lake Sybelia, the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey is a rehabilitation facility for injured raptors, as well as a nationally renowned research institute with a strong focus on educational programming. Since 1979, more than 12,000 raptors have been treated, and more than 40 percent have been released back into the wild (the center released its 400th Bald Eagle in 2010). At times, the public can view 15 or more captive raptor species at the center, such as Bald Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Mississippi Kite, Cooper’s Hawk, Great Horned Owl, Crested Caracara and Short-tailed Hawk. The grounds feature a picnic area, native plants and a butterfly garden. The center’s educational programs cover rehabilitation techniques, raptor biology, habitat and identification. Programs are excellent for adults and children alike. If traveling in a group, call ahead to schedule a program. Public events include a Baby Owl Shower (spring) and an Owl Prowl (fall).
Directions: From I-4 in Orlando, take exit 88 for Lee Rd. and head east. Almost immediately, turn left (north) at the first light (Wymore Rd.). Continue north on Wymore for 0.9 mi. to the first traffic light, which is Kennedy Blvd. Turn right (east) and proceed 0.6 mi. to East Ave. Turn left (north) and go 0.2 mi. At the stop sign (Audubon Way), turn left (west) into the parking lot.
Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 4 PM. Closed Mondays and holidays.
