Hello Lenore!

As I reported a couple of days ago, we've had a changing of the guard (or in this case, the ravens) at the Education Training Center. Mischief and her sister Lenore, our white naped ravens have traded places. Mischief can now be seen at our Visitor Center at WBS's public site, or taking your money for our donation box at one of our programs. Lenore is relaxing out of the spotlight, and I am happy to see her. Lenore is sometimes referred to as "the cuddliest raven," and she really appreciates scratches and attention from the people she likes. Corvids are particular about the company they keep, and there is nothing better than being approved of by a raven or crow.

Here's Miss Lenore demonstrating her favorite vocalization:



Lenore can say hello, but for the most part she's above using human language, and certainly not inclined to use it on cue!

Mischief the raven can't say goodbye

Every year Mischief, our white naped raven, leaves her life of luxury at our Education Training Center (where I volunteer) to perform for half the year in our education programs. When she isn't taking money to stuff in the donations box, she is on view at our visitor center during summer and fall. I tried to teach her majesty to say goodbye for the camera, but she doesn't believe in goodbyes.



When Mischief goes out, her sister Lenore moves in to revel in six months of pampering. I'll have videos of Lenore posted soon, but here's a little picture of my new favorite raven. And yes, I say that to all the ravens, but you gotta love the one you're with!

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Ravens want your hard earned money!

Our ravens and crows are frequent participants in fund raising efforts for the World Bird Sanctuary. They are a special favorite of children and adults alike. In these photos from last summer's Birds in Concert performances (check back for the dates for this August), you can see my personal favorite raven, Mischief, accepting donations from fans. I've given her a few bucks myself! She's irresistible. 100% of the money she collects goes to feed, house, and care for our birds.

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Mischief Enrichment

Among our responsibilities to the birds at WBS, enrichment is one of the most exciting and important. By exploiting a bird’s natural behavior and curiosity, enrichment provides not only physical activity, but also necessary mental activity. Besides which, it is fun to watch!

Last week I decided to try a new entertainment. I brought a clean and empty milk carton from home and, with Mischief the white napped raven carefully observing my every move, placed several live meal worms inside. As you can see from the video, the project was a hit. Mischief, whose monikers include “Destroyer of Ankle,” lost all interest in me as she wrestled the milk carton into submission.

In the absence of planned enrichment, birds as intelligent as Mischief take it where they find it. Mischief, for example, has been known to enjoy the excitement provoked by a sharp nip to the human ankle or shin. And there is no amusement park ride to compare with clinging to a person’s leg as it tries to escape your fiendish grasp. For obvious reasons, this is not a behavior that we want to encourage. Keeping an eye on the behavior of our birds allows us to “listen” to their wants and needs and to respond accordingly.

As you can see, enrichment makes both birds and people very happy campers.

Showbiz takes practice...

Here you see Hugnin, one of our white naped ravens, working on her act for the Boston show this summer. Hugnin and company have arrived in Boston and will begin regular performances on May 24th at the Stone Zoo. Unlike many performers, Hugnin will work for dog food and praise!