Birds of Prey Northwest has long been a place of refuge, healing, and education. Nestled in St. Maries, Idaho, this raptor ranch exists to rescue, rehabilitate, and protect injured birds of prey—while also educating the public through ambassador birds who help tell their species’ stories. Every aviary, every perch, and every feathered life here represents dedication, compassion, and stewardship of the natural world.

I began volunteering at Birds of Prey Northwest simply wanting to help. What I didn’t expect was how deeply I would fall in love—with the birds, the mission, and the people who give everything they have to this work. These birds are not exhibits; they are teachers, survivors, and living symbols of resilience. Being close to them changes you.

In late December 2025, that sanctuary was forever altered.

A sudden and devastating windstorm tore through the area with winds reaching 75 miles per hour. In a matter of hours, multiple aviaries were destroyed. Structures that took years to build were ripped apart. Several education birds were injured, and tragically, some were lost. For those of us who know these birds by name, this loss is heartbreaking beyond words.

Now, Birds of Prey Northwest is facing the enormous task of rebuilding—restoring safe enclosures, repairing infrastructure, and continuing care for the birds who survived. This work cannot wait, and it cannot be done alone.

Your support directly helps rebuild aviaries, replace materials, and ensure that these birds once again have safe spaces to heal and educate. By giving, you are helping protect a mission that matters—not just to this community, but to the wild world we all share.

Thank you for standing with us in this moment. Together, we can rebuild what was lost—and honor the lives that depend on it.