Teton Raptor Center

RESEARCH: In FY 2024-25, TRC advanced 12 distinct research and conservation projects across the Intermountain West and Great Plains, working in partnership with 22 agencies and organizations. The research team also invested in developing the next generation of ecologists by actively supporting three graduate students. Key initatives included: developing a statewide conservation planning tool for Golden Eagles and Ferruginous Hawks in Wyoming; habitat modeling for multiple raptor species across seasons; and construction of artificial nest structures for Golden Eagles in the Great Plains and Ferruginous Hawks in western Wyoming. TRC also led major field studies in the Bighorn Basin and Converse County to examine the effects of human disturbance on raptor nesting success. The team published several peer-reviewed journal articles this year, including studies focused on Ferruginous Hawks, Great Gray Owls, and Golden Eagles.

REHABILITATION: Teton Raptor Center provides rescue, emergency medical treatment, and rehabilitative care to injured, ill, and orphaned birds of prey with the goal of returning them to the wild. As one of only two facilities in Wyoming offering this level of specialized care for raptors, TRC plays a critical role in regional rehabilitation. In FY 2024-25, TRC admitted 241 avian patients, including 203 raptors from 23 species across Wyoming and Idaho. The clinic also treated 25 corvids and provided short-term stabilization for 13 other birds (representing 9 different species). The leading causes of admission included vehicle collisions, window strikes, and gunshot wounds. Great Horned Owls were the most frequently admitted species, with 51 individuals treated. TRCs medical clinic also serves as a training ground for emerging pro- fessionals, hosting several pre-veterinary interns and veterinary externs over the course of the year. In collaboration with our primary veterinarians and medical advisors, TRC continues to advance treatment protocols and rehabilitation techniques to improve outcomes for every patient in our care.

CONSERVATION INITIATIVES: Teton Raptor Center leads science-driven conservation initiatives to protect birds of prey and their habitats. One such effort, the Port-O-Potty- Owl Project, addressed the widespread threat of entrapment to cavity-nesting wildlife in vault toilets. Since its inception in 2013, the project has reached all 50 states, the Virgin Islands and Canada, with 20,272 screens distributed.

Another flagship effort, the Sporting Lead-Free initiative continues to make significant strides in reducing the use of lead ammunition and tackle. Through outreach efforts including demonstrations, social media, podcasts, public events, and media interviews, the initiative educates hunters and anglers about non-lead alternatives. In FY 2024-25 Sporting Lead-Free launched a national campaign and

concluded the year with 642 members, 46 ambassadors across 23 states, and 31 conservation partner organizations. VOLUNTEERS: In FY 2024-25, The Teton Raptor Centers dedicated volunteers contributed 7,386 hours in support of raptor conservation- providing vital assistance in the clinic, in the field, and in educational settings. Their generosity of time and talent plays an essential role in advancing TRCs mission.