Wildlife Clinic partners with Swaner Preserve to expand raptor rehabilitation with new flight enclosure

Photo: by Ray Bryant

PARK CITY, Utah – The Wasatch Wildlife Conservation Center has announced a new partnership with Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter to establish a raptor flight enclosure at the Wallin Barn, expanding its rehabilitation resources for injured birds of prey. The new 60-by-30-foot facility will be the clinic’s largest enclosure to date, designed to accommodate flight testing and rehabilitation for larger birds of prey.

“This flight enclosure will be our largest to date at 60′ x 30′ and will be suitable for flight testing and rehabilitating larger birds of prey,” said Jody Giddings, CEO of Wasatch Wildlife Conservation Center. “I am looking forward to being at Wallin Barn which will allow us to engage the Park City Community directly in our conservation efforts.”

In addition to aiding the recovery of injured raptors, the enclosure will serve as a space for ambassador raptors to exercise, supporting their ongoing health. “A raptor flight enclosure serves as a living classroom, allowing our community to witness the majesty of birds of prey up close while supporting vital rehabilitation work,” Giddings said. “It’s where healing happens and wonder takes flight.”

“Swaner is excited for this opportunity to partner with Wasatch Wildlife Conservation Center as they fill such a critical need in our community,” Rhea Cone, Director of Conservation at Swaner shared. “We want to remind folks that the area is still closed to the public at this time and are looking forward to ways to engage onsite in the coming months.”

The total cost of the project is estimated at $12,500, with fundraising underway to meet this goal. Once funds are secured, the clinic plans to host a community work day in early December at Swaner Preserve, inviting local residents to participate directly in conservation efforts.