What if I find an injured raptor?
- Please reach out to MRCC’s landline at 406-585-1211, as we may be out of the office rescuing raptors or facilitating education programs.
- You can also call or text our emergency number at 406-404-4277.
- Important: Do not attempt to handle the bird unless you receive explicit instructions from MRCC staff.
- Remember, raptors are wild animals and can cause injury to untrained individuals.
- Note the exact location of the bird and call the numbers provided.
- If possible, please stay close to the bird until assistance arrives.
- You play a crucial role as the first step in the recovery of an injured raptor. The sooner an injured bird reaches the center, the better its chances for healing.
Can I donate meat to MRCC?
- Yes! The center and the raptors depend on donations of wild game meat from the community to feed the birds. We gladly accept elk, deer, antelope, and bison.
- MRCC is unable to take whole carcasses or entrails, as well as burger, sausage, or smoked/jerked meats.
- We cannot accept beef, bison, chicken, turkey, or pork.
- It is essential that we provide a lean, natural, and healthy diet to support the raptors during their recovery!
- Please reach out to us to arrange a drop-off.
Does MRCC present educational programs?
- MRCC provides a diverse range of educational programs for the community, catering to various audiences. Our offerings include:
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- School classes
- Adult education courses
- Small business and corporate events
- The program topics explore the different types of raptors found in Montana, highlighting their significance and role within the ecosystem. MRCC is committed to accommodating your requests for specific themes or customizing the program to align with your curriculum.
Can I tour or visit MRCC?
- Unfortunately, the center is not open to the public.
- Our state and federal permits do not allow us to be open to the public.
- We do not want to add any extra stress to our injured and healing raptors in rehabilitation.
- Our ultimate goal is to return the birds back into the wild, so keeping human contact to a minimum is of utmost importance.
- We do offer the option to schedule private tours of our educational areas or arrange a presentation at our outdoor amphitheater.
How can I help raptors inhabit the environment?
- Clean Up Litter: Always pick up trash and avoid littering.
- Waste near roadways, even if biodegradable.
- It creates an artificial ecosystem that draws in the prey of various raptors, increasing the likelihood of these birds being struck by vehicles.
- Use Bird Silhouettes: Place bird silhouettes on your windows to help prevent small hawks, falcons, and owls from crashing into them at high speeds.
- Preserve Natural Habitat: Leave dead snags and old trees on your property to provide perching and nesting opportunities for birds.
- Install Kestrel Boxes: Set up kestrel boxes in open habitats during spring to attract nesting kestrels. More information can be found here!
- Choose Eco-Friendly Gear: Transition to lead-free hunting ammunition and fishing equipment. Discover more information here!
