“They like my feather patterns the best! That’s why they’re here,” argued Barred Owl.

“Ha, everyone knows they’re here to marvel over my eye sight,” cawed Red-tailed Hawk. “They’re the best eyes at the Nature Station, and I dare say, some of the greatest in the entire world.”

“No, they’ve come to ‘ooh’ over my majestic hoo-ing and ‘awe’ about my grand wisdom,” said Great Horned Owl.

Screech Owl chortled to himself as the crowd of people gathered not far from their perches, anxiously waiting for the Parade of Raptors to begin.
“Oh, and I suppose you have a better explanation as to why everyone’s here this evening?” remarked Barn Owl.

“Of course I do,” said Screech Owl.
“Oh, and why is that?” Red-tailed Hawk quickly retorted.
“Yes, please grace us with your great wisdom,” Great Horned Owl mockingly hoo-ed.
“Well, if your great eyes cannot see, and your vast wisdom cannot tell, I will gladly share. They have come to see my splendor and charm, of course! For it cannot be contended with,” Screech Owl exclaimed with a majestic air.
The other birds of prey all hoo-ed and cawed in laughter at Screech Owl, yet none of them could retort his claim, nor wound his pride. For he was, indeed, one of the prettiest among the owls, and perhaps even among all of owl kind.

Learn firsthand the answers to questions such as, what do owls like to eat? Which owl, pound per pound, is the most terrifying? How far can a hawk see clearly? What you learn may just surprise you. Come any day at 4:30 during the Parade of Raptors at the Nature Station and decide which bird of prey is your favorite.
Story told by Brian Truskey, Communications Department apprentice.