About Smoky Mountain Raptor Center
Providing a voice for North American Birds of Prey!
Smoky Mountain Raptor Center, previously Upstate Birds of Prey, was established to assist in the capture, rehabilitation and release back into nature, injured and orphaned birds of prey.
We are a 501c(3) organization and all contributions made on behalf of our animal care is tax deductible. We work closely with some of the best raptor rehabbers and veterinarians in the world.
Our Purpose is To:
- Foster and encourage interest in North American Birds of Prey
- Teach how small changes can make a big difference
- Promote education through schools, churches and community centers
- Rescue, care for and release injured and orphaned Birds of Prey
We Love What We Do!
We believe that what we’ve been called to do, rehabilitate injured raptors & care for the non-releasble as ambassadors for their world, is a blessing!
Every day we wake up and drift off to sleep to the sounds of owls, either our education birds or the ones in rehab. We often times hear them call in the wild owls which is also very exciting and educational. The annual migrations go right over top of our facility which is not only beautiful to observe but teaches us so much.
Our desire is to be a part of our community and we are currently accomplishing this by:
-Attending the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine’s Open House and sharing with everyone how much UTCVM does for wildlife!
-Doing programs for the Boys and Girls Clubs
-Teaching several classes a year at The Great Smoky Mountain Institute at Tremont for both the students but also for Ornithologists and Science Teachers!
-Teaching at Elementary and Middle Schools in our county
-Helping the Knoxville Symphony League with their annual fundraising
-Attending events at Walland Elementary where the goal is bringing parents into their children’s lives one special night a month!
And so many more new adventures this year!
We are members of the International Association of Avian Trainers and Educators and International Wildlife Rehabbers Association. This gives us mentors and connects us with years of experience at The Peregrine Fund, The Raptor Center and National Encounters, Inc..
Check Out Our Grounds
Our mews are expanding as your donations increase. Check out our grounds!