High above the forest floor, nestled in the verdant expanse of Fontenelle Forest in Bellevue, a unique sanctuary thrives. This is the Raptor Woodland Refuge, home to over 20 winged carnivores, including the internet-famous screech owl, an inquisitive turkey vulture, and a personable peregrine falcon, each with a story to tell.
Ell Kinsey, a dedicated caretaker, stands before the eagles’ enclosure, encouraging them to eat. Her responsibilities include ensuring the welfare of these birds, alongside a small team devoted to their care. The refuge’s residents, housed 30 feet above ground, benefit from full-time attention involving food preparation, training, enrichment, and maintaining their enclosures.
“I think one of our big focuses, in addition to the education, is also making sure that we’re giving the birds that we do have a very high quality of life,” Kinsey stated. She emphasizes that these birds, despite their injuries, deserve a dignified life rather than being cast aside.
A pivotal moment for the refuge came when it merged with Nebraska’s sole raptor rehabilitation program, Raptor Recovery, initiated by Betsy Finch in the 1970s. This program remains the largest raptor rehabilitation initiative in the state.
As the refuge approaches its 10th anniversary in July, the team plans a celebration on July 11, inviting the public to meet the birds from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Kathy Fischer, Raptor Program Manager, highlights that each bird’s presence at the refuge tells a tale of survival and adaptation.
“Wing injuries, head trauma, lead poisoning, which is huge. Just a little bit of lead can make them very, very, very sick,” Fischer explained. These conditions render the birds non-releasable, making the refuge their permanent home.
Many birds participate in educational outreach, visiting schools and nursing homes to promote raptor education and conservation. Fischer noted, “I think when the public comes here, they get a general respect for the birds,” acknowledging the bonds formed between visitors and the resident birds.
One notable resident, Spike, an eastern screech owl, gained internet fame in 2025 after being rescued from a train car with a brain injury. His story of recovery, aided by George, a fellow owl, highlights the refuge’s nurturing environment.
Both Fischer and Kinsey share an affection for Sundance, a turkey vulture known for his curious nature and interaction with his caretakers. At 23, Sundance has surpassed his expected lifespan, embodying the legacy the refuge aims to uphold.
“It is sad because in the next couple of years, we are going to lose originals and favorites,” Kinsey reflected, underscoring the importance of recognizing the legacy these birds leave behind.
Looking ahead, Fischer envisions a new generation leading the refuge into its next decade. “I want to see the young people come in and take that responsibility on and take care of it and bring in new ideas,” she expressed, hopeful for the future of raptor conservation.
