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THE CAPTIVE BREEDING PROGRAM

It is the aim of the South African National Bird of Prey Centre to create a "genetic bank" of all the indigenous birds of prey of Southern Africa. At present our birds of prey numbers are on the decline for various reasons. We feel that it is pointless shutting the door once the horse has bolted so now is the time to make sure we will have the genes, so that once various factors have been addressed one will have birds to reintroduce back into a safe environment.

Breeding birds also allows one to gain knowledge and understanding of raptors which is unavailable to the scientist monitoring nesting behaviour in the wild. To date we have had limited successes, as it has been a slow process acquiring potential breeders. At present the two centres have concentrated on phase one of their development i.e. establishing their educational flying teams. We are now about to enter phase two i.e. building breeding aviaries. Like everything in life it takes time and money. If you are in a position to help financially please don't hesitate to make a donation or sponsorship. Have a look at our sponsorship and membership options; your assistance would be greatly appreciated.

Click on the pictures for a closer look >>
(Photographs by Phil Sturgess)