The SORCO Raptor Rehab Centre is only open to the public on one day each year.
The open house this year, the 31st annual, falls on May 5 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with admission by donation. It’s an important fundraiser for the rehab centre, with all raised going to care for the birds.
SORCO manager Dale Belvedere said visitors will have an opportunity to tour the site and see displays at the interactive education centre, the medical facilities and the exhibits and presentations about the history of the operation.
Due to regulations governing the operation of the facility, which cares for injured and sick raptors of all varieties, the public cannot view the operations or resident birds except on this special day.
“This is a very important day for us to get the message out about what we do and how important the funding we receive from the public is for the work we do in caring for these birds,” said Belvedere.
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Further to that end, there will be a silent auction of donated items, over 100 this year. A barbecue, by donation, will also be operating on site.
People will also have an opportunity to see the work of the Burrowing Owl Society of B.C., who work out of the SORCO site, and operate a captive breeding program of resident owls.
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There will also be a special birthday celebration for Houdini, the centre’s great horned owl, who turns 19 this year.
Face painting and more than 20 nature and wildlife exhibitors will also be on hand.
SORCO is located about 10 kilometres south of Okanagan Falls, 8965 Highway 97, Oliver.
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Mark Brett | Reporter
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