By Don Urquhart, Times Chronicle
Challenging economic times made worse by the uncertainty of US tariffs have wrinkled the feathers of the South Okanagan Rehabilitation Centre for Owls (SORCO Raptor Rehab Centre), which saw nearly 1,000 fewer visitors at its one-day-a-year open house on Sunday, May 4.
Dale Belvedere, SORCO Manager, said she wasn’t completely surprised at the lower turnout because of the current economic mood in the country. She estimated around 1,500 visitors this year which was down from last year and down from previous years when up to 2,500 visitors came to the event.
Various wildlife exhibitors were onsite. Don Urquhart photo
The event featured a BBQ fundraiser, presentations on the activities of the rehab centre, some recovering raptors to view, wildlife exhibitors and a highlight from the fundraising perspective, the silent auction.
And of course, the centre of attention this year was Houdini, a great horned owl that has been the centre’s ambassador since he was rescued after falling out of his nest at only three days old. While he recovered, his injuries made it impossible for him to be released into the wild, and he became SORCO’s ambassador.
On Sunday, his 25th birthday was celebrated in style with a cake and a giant birthday card on which visitors penned their congratulations.
Visitors take in the information displays. Don Urquhart photo
“It’s amazing the work, you know, and the care that’s gone in, all the past and present volunteers, I mean, he loves us all. So it’s a big, big thing and we have to do something,” Belvedere says of the celebration.
Houdini has already surpassed his lifespan in the wild, where competition for food, predators and disease, amongst other issues, generally make for a 15-year lifespan. “He’s in perfect health,” says Belvedere, adding that she’s hoping for another five years.
Two, three-month-old great horned owls were set to be released following the open house, after recovering at the centre. Another two smaller baby owls are still in the recovery process.
Two young baby “owlets”. The sibling pair of great horned owls are still recovering and not yet ready for release.
Don Urquhart photo
To report an injured raptor, call 250-498-4251, and to donate, visit sorco.org/donate. The centre is always on the lookout for volunteers and can be reached at [email protected].
