Rise enlists the help of live, non-releasable birds of prey in our programs. The purpose is to allow people to experience aspects of our world they would not be able to experience otherwise. They aid in teaching people about being good stewards of our world in fulfillment of Rise’s mission.
Dignity as a Foundation for High Standards of Care:
Treating all living beings with dignity and respect is the core of our principles. Each individual is cared for with the highest standards. Excellent avian veterinarians assist with physical health. Each bird is mentally challenged with positive reinforcement in a way that is specific for the individual. We work with them on free flight for both physical and mental exercise.
Publication: “Dignity: The Foundation of a Successful Education Program“
After witnessing years of people who greatly lacked ability, mistreating or abusing animals in their care as objects for personal or other gains, our founder decided it was time to officially write about this topic. The final catalyst for this publication was witnessing a long-time ‘naturalist’ of state government ‘conservation’ agency abusively handling the symbol of the USA, a Bald Eagle, as well as all other birds in their care, in a public display. We encourage reading “Dignity: The Foundation of a Successful Education Program”, published in by the International Association of Avian Trainers and Educators.
Positive Training
Our training methods use only force free, positive reinforcement. Because of many hours of preparation, our birds are comfortable around thousands of people. This allows for up close experiences with our audience members.
Even though our birds are comfortable near people, they are not pets. Their primary purpose is to represent wild relatives and their wonders of their world.
Associations
The peer organizations we associate with also practice these high standards. We have zero tolerance those who:
- Exploit animals for selfish personal gain.
- Do not abide by the laws enacted for the protection of animals.
- Present animals not suitable and/or properly prepared for public education programs.
Our Responsibility:
It is a great responsibility and privilege to be good stewards of these animals. Our commitment to them is for life. We have the utmost admiration for our wild relatives, and it is our duty to see they are treated with utmost respect and dignity. Every person working with Rise holds these standards and will accept nothing less than the very best we can provide.
Legal:
The U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 protects all migratory birds. This prohibits possession of live birds, feathers, and parts. Rise possesses various permits allowing the possession of live birds and static display items.
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