FOUR OAKS — Johnston Community College’s Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center has introduced the newest member of its educational family, a bald eagle named Lady Bird.
The eagle is named in honor of the former First Lady, Claudia “Lady Bird” Johnson, whose dedication to environmental conservation inspired Howell Woods’ own mission to promote environmental education and stewardship.
The 6-year-old bald eagle comes to JCC from The American Wildlife Refuge, where she was rehabilitated after being treated for lead poisoning and an injured wing. Since she was facing euthanasia and cannot return to the wild, JCC obtained a federal permit to house Lady Bird at Howell Woods.
Lady Bird is adjusting well to life at Howell Woods. Her daily diet consists of two pounds of fish and rats. She is also enclosed in a stimulating environment with various perches and swings to keep her active and engaged.
“This incredible opportunity to host a bald eagle like Lady Bird allows us to further educate our visitors on the vital role wildlife rehabilitation plays in conservation,” said Kaitlyn Tarley, Manager of Environmental Education and Museum Exhibits.
“We are committed to providing her with the best possible care as she helps us educate the public about bald eagles, wildlife rehabilitation, and environmental preservation,” Tarley added.
We encourage the public to visit Howell Woods to meet Lady Bird and to learn about her role in our educational programs, which includes other birds of prey – owls, a red tail hawk, and a vulture.
To explore the programs and offerings at JCC’s Howell Woods, visit Howell Woods Program Information.
This is awesome.