Wildlife Education - Green Chimneys

Farm Program Grows in the Forest at Clearpool

May 7, 2021

Learning from Wildlife

The Paul C. Kupchok Wildlife Rehabilitation Center is home to nearly 50 permanently disabled or imprinted raptors and other wildlife. Licensed by the Department of Environmental Conservation and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to maintain and rehabilitate birds of prey, the Center treats, rehabilitates and releases injured, orphaned or distressed birds. It specializes in hawks, falcons, eagles, owls, and vultures. Songbirds and small mammals also are handled on occasion.

Children learn from a staff of state-licensed wildlife rehabilitators, an environmental educator and animal caretaker. Environmental classes provide opportunities for children to learn and appreciate nature and promote awareness of environmental conservation. Students assist in animal care by preparing diets, cleaning bowls and participating in various aspects of animal medical treatments.

Institute Interns support the program by assisting wildlife classes, working one-on-one with students, learning about wildlife rehabilitation, maintaining the center and serving as primary caregivers for the animals.

Mac

Crabapple Hollow Macintosh, “Mac” for short, is among the newest additions to the Green Chimneys Equine Program. Purchased in part through a generous donation from the Parent Association, Mac fulfills the need to carry larger riders in the program. He is an 11-year-old Clydesdale gelding (male) with striking white markings and long, white hair on his legs called “feathers.” Clydesdales originated in Scotland as one of the smaller draft breeds but have been bred to be taller to look more impressive in parades and shows.