This is the official fundraiser for West Coast Falconry and is overseen by facility volunteers and staff. My name is Shelby Smith and I'm a volunteer at West Coast Falconry and the owner and staff are my dear friends.

Background: In the early morning hours of April 17, 2026, West Coast Falconry in Marysville, California, suffered a devastating break-in. An unknown intruder vandalized the premises, destroyed equipment and intentionally released all 11 of their birds, cutting the gear off their legs, removing them from their enclosures and leaving them to fend for themselves. THREE birds are still missing. The staff is heartbroken and deeply concerned, as these birds are either imprinted on humans or have special needs, making them unable to survive on their own.

The missing birds include a Peregrine Falcon originally transferred from a rehab center, a Red-Tail Hawk who is blind in one eye, and a Great Horned Owl rescued at 4 days old. Each of these birds plays a vital role in the facility’s educational and conservation programs, and their absence is felt by everyone who cares for them.

Funds raised will be transferred directly to West Coast Falconry and be used toward search efforts to bring these birds home, replacing essential falconry equipment lost in the break-in, upgrading security to prevent future incidents, and helping West Coast Falconry recover so they can continue their important work.

The "stretch goal" is that enough funds will be secured to construct a more secure "mews". As always, the first consideration is the bird's safety.

The impact on the staff and the community is immeasurable. Your support will help ensure the safety and well-being of the remaining birds and allow the facility to resume its mission of education and conservation.

Thank you for any support you can offer—every donation, share, and word of encouragement makes a difference. If you’re near Marysville, CA, please keep an eye out for any of these species acting unusually comfortable around people. Together, we can help bring these birds home and support the dedicated team at West Coast Falconry.

Hear more about the story on YouTube

Kate, the Master Falconer at West Coast Falconry gave this interview to the San Francisco Chronicle yesterday.

Tired but hopeful! Taken 4-19-2026, the organizer (center) with facility staff and volunteers.