Salix Takes Flight: The Newest Ambassador at Idaho’s Birds and Prey Center Teaching the Importance of Wildlife Conservation

In the Idaho desert, just south of Boise, lies a sprawling complex that serves as home to 22 very special ambassadors. These ambassadors are birds of prey, and they serve as a bridge between humans and these magnificent creatures, helping us better understand how to care for them in their natural environment.

The newest addition to this esteemed group is Salix, a baby barn owl. Despite being only a few weeks old, Salix has already captured the hearts of visitors with its small, scruffy appearance. This young raptor is teaching visitors about the importance of caring for birds in the wild.

Stephanie Ashley, the curator of birds at The World Center for Birds and Prey, and Tate Mason, the center’s director, recently spoke on Idaho Matters about Salix and the other avian ambassadors at the center. Through their work, they hope to educate the public about their role in preserving and protecting these majestic creatures.