Raptor Center of Southeast Michigan

Hello! I’m honored to be writing this letter to you, but even more honored to be given the experience to learn raptor rehabilitation from Dody Wyman! I want you to know how thankful I am for your support and generosity during Dody’s re-start fundraiser as we begin to spread our wings again. So, you must be asking, who are you and why did you decide to start this journey?

My first real encounter with birds of prey goes back to when my husband Scott and I were both attending Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant in 2006. We just happened to attend an education program with raptors and I instantly fell in love with owls. We graduated in 2011 and both got jobs in Ann Arbor where we once again stumbled upon an education program at the Farmers Market given by the Leslie Science and Nature Center (LSNC). I began volunteering at LSNC that summer, and have continued to volunteer as a weekly raptor feeder. Over the years I’ve learned so much about raptors, but always felt like I wanted to do more.

Through my friendships at LSNC and Michigan Avian Experience, I heard of Dody’s determined retirement and knew we would have a void of quality raptor care in Southeast Michigan. This was my chance to help out and make a difference! I reached out to Dody who began to teach me the skills needed to become successful. After a lot of shadowing Dody, and under her watchful eye, I’m now beginning to rehab from home! I am currently training a young red-tailed hawk who has a bad toe and brain injury from being hit by a car. He is learning everyday and he will soon move to a wildlife center in Utah. I look forward to keeping you updated on my new journey and once again thank you for your financial support! This restart couldn’t have happened without you!!