Currently, our captive propagation and release efforts are focused on the North American accipiters. These secretive woodland species were selected because their population status is uncertain and less is known about requirements of breeding these species in captivity.
Sharp-shinned Hawk
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 Northern Goshawk |
 Cooper's Hawk |
Although the breeding season for Spring, 2001 was disrupted due to the move to an interim facility, we were able to produce 6 goshawks in captivity, the largest number to date for a single breeding season! We also produced our first 2 baby red-shouldered hawks (a species of special concern in New York)! Except for one of the red-shoulder babies which killed by the parents, all of these birds are being trained and conditioned for release.
Two of the goshawks and one of the red-shouldered hawks were hacked out (released from a nest platform with food supplied daily) in the Ellis Hollow area and remained in the area for 10-12 weeks after fledging (14-16 weeks old). What a treat to watch the antics of these young birds as they tested their wings and learned to fly! The birds returned for food with decreasing frequency, sometimes being gone for over a week. During the last 2-3 weeks, all of these young hawks dispersed for good, most likely starting the fall migration to points south. All were banded with federal bird bands, so we will eventually learn if they are ever recovered for any reason.