2018 FALL Newsletter

Seasons Change and So Do We!
As autumn arrives and the colors in
the Chilkat Valley begin to change,
the staff at the American Bald Eagle
Foundation are reflecting on the
many changes made here in the
last three years as well as looking
forward to change on the horizon.
In 2015, ABEF made a major
paradigm shift in the way we
train the ambassadors on our
team. Under the direction of
former Raptor Program Manager
Leia Minch, staff embraced a
training approach based on the
most positive, least intrusive
methods available. Using positive
reinforcement and a solid
foundation of behavior science
rather than coercion, the birds
were re-trained to participate in
programs, and now do so willingly
and comfortably. The birds are
empowered to be in control of
their training sessions and the staff
is focused on listening to their
body language
and reacting
accordingly.
As training
changed, so
did standards
of care and
wellness. It was
decided that our
enclosures did
not reflect our
new approach to
empowerment.
Through a pre-development grant
from the Foraker group, ABEF
was able to design new enclosures
which would provide the birds with
more light, enriching views, and
better control of their environment
through access to the elements
and a variety of perches. We’ve
been fundraising for this project
nearly two years, and finally began
to make changes in May with the
demolition of an old, outdated
building. In the coming
weeks, we will begin
phase two- construction
of four brand new aviaries.
Change is something we embrace
here at ABEF. Our understanding
of the natural world is always
changing, and keeping up to date
with best practices, current science,
and educational standards makes
this an ever-changing and exciting
field. We are looking forward to
sharing our new knowledge and
our new facility
with guests as
we continue to
change and grow.
Sidney Campbell is the Education and
Outreach Coordinator at the American Bald
Eagle Foundation in Haines, Alaska. She
works to bring empowering wildlife education
to Haines and surrounding communities
and worldly visitors by managing outreach, publications, and
educational programming. She works with the Raptor Program
Manager to train the avian ambassadors at the facility to take
part in education and outreach. Visit the American Bald Eagle
Foundation in Haines, Alaska. Open Monday to Friday’s 10am
- 2pm. Closed Saturday and Sundays. Explore further online at
https://baldeagles.org/
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Top Right: Staff look on as Phase I begins with demolition of an old aviary at the
Foundation. Bottom Left: A new weathering yard allows ambassadors like Ole,
the perigrine falcon, to come outside and enjoy the sunshine in front of guests.
Ole and his handler, Sidney have created a very close bond.
Volume 13, Issue 2