For Release: June 16, 2004
Media only:
Matt Olear 
(202)
673-4925 or (202) 674-0024 cell
Peper Long (202) 673-0206 or (202) 391-2471
cell
Public only: (202) 673-4821
National Zoo Hosts “Wings of America” Raptor Shows Beginning Friday, June 18
Several species of raptors will take flight at the National Zoo when the American Eagle Foundation performs a series of live birds of prey shows, called Wings of America. Visitors will be treated to a unique, up-close look at a variety of fascinating raptor species rarely seen in the wild, including the bald eagle, golden eagle, peregrine falcon and great horned owl. Some of these birds will be flown over the crowd.
The Wings of America shows will take place at the National Zoo’s Lion/Tiger Hill; each show lasts about 20 minutes, followed by a question-and-answer period and photo opportunities. The American Eagle Foundation has conducted more than 9,000 educational, free-flight birds of prey shows across the country since 1991. The foundation is headquartered at, and sponsored by, the Dollywood entertainment park in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
Coinciding with the Wings of America shows, the National Zoo and Friends of the National Zoo (FONZ) will celebrate American Eagle Weekend on Saturday, June 19, and Sunday, June 20. Special feedings of the Zoo’s bald eagles, talks by Zoo staff, arts, crafts and other activities for children will take place on both days at the Bald Eagle Refuge along the Valley Trail.
D.C. Mayor Anthony A. Williams has proclaimed June 20 “American Eagle Day” as part of the eagle celebration festivities.
Wings of America shows
June 18–20: 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m.
June
23–27: 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m.
American Eagle Weekend (June 19-20)
10:30 a.m., 2:30
p.m. Hawk Demonstrations
12 p.m., 2 p.m.
Bald Eagle Feedings
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Bald Eagle Object Table, Bald Eagle
Nutrition Table, “Kid Size” Bald Eagle Nest
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