FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
PRESENTATIONS & PROGRAMS
1. How long are your programs?
Our programs are usually 1.5 hours and typically include:
- Four to five Bird Ambassadors
- Discovery Table for hands-on exploration
- Presentation and Q&A throughout the program
2. What do you talk about during a program?
We will talk about Birds of Prey in general and then get into more specific details about the Bird Ambassadors that we’ve brought and their story. We can also do customized programs to fit your needs.
3. Is there a limit to the number of people that can attend one of your programs?
No, we can present to large groups, but larger groups will have limited time at our Discovery Table.
4. Is there an age limit for your programs?
No, we welcome people of all ages to join us. We respect our Bird Ambassadors and ask that everyone stay as quiet and still as possible.
5. Can we take photos of the Bird Ambassadors?
Please do! However, we ask that you turn off the flash and camera lights before taking a photo.
6. Can I hold and touch the Bird Ambassadors?
No, for safety reasons we do not permit touching or holding the birds, but we do have feathers, wings, and talons, among other things at our Discovery Table that you can touch and explore.
7. How much do you charge for a program?
There are variables that can affect pricing such as location, program duration, multiple programs, etc. Please complete the “Book A Presentation” form on our website so we can identify your needs and provide you with a quote.
8. What are your setup requirements?
We ask for five, 6-foot-long tables in a location where no one can walk behind us. We will also need a minimum of 5 feet between our Discovery Table and the nearest audience member.
9. Can we visit your location?
No, we do not have the capability, but are happy to come to you.
OUR BIRDS
1. How did HH&H get their birds?
We are fully permitted through Federal Fish & Wildlife, CA Fish & Wildlife, and now the USDA which is required to possess birds of prey in the state of California.
2. Can I own a bird of prey?
The short answer is no, individuals cannot just take a bird of prey and keep it as a “pet.” These birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Act of 1932. It is an extensive vetting process to obtain the required permits through the three agencies mentioned above.
3. Why does HH&H care for these birds?
All of our Bird Ambassadors have a physical or mental disability and would not survive in the wild. They have all been through a rigorous rehabilitation process and failed according to trained Veterinarians. Letters stating the bird’s disability are one of the many requirements that need to be met in the permitting process.
4. How long do you keep your birds? Do you ever let them go back to the wild?
We are committed to our birds for their lifetime, for as long as that may be. Again, they have all been deemed “non-releasable,” which is why we have them to share with you.
5. Where do your birds live? Do they all live together?
Our birds are in two different locations and all have their separate mews (cages) since they live solitary lives for the vast majority of the year.
6. How big are their mews (cages)?
It depends on the bird and its disability. We pride ourselves on providing a larger-than-required living space for all our Bird Ambassadors regardless of their injury.
7. What do your birds eat?
All our birds eat an appropriate diet according to their species. For example, our Peregrine Falcon, who in the wild will typically eat other birds, gets fed a quail to mirror what he would eat in the wild.
HAWKS HONKERS & HOOTS
1. How long has HH&H been around?
We started the “permitting process” in 2011 which was approved in 2013.
2. What is HH&H’s mission?
We want to inspire respect for local and migratory birds through customized and entertaining educational programs. We all have a special love and admiration for birds. We are all fascinated by their amazing lives and would love to share our admiration and knowledge with you! We strive to teach you a few things that you may not know about birds so that you can appreciate them as we do.
3. Is HH&H a non-profit?
Yes, we are proud to be a 100% volunteer, 501c3 non-profit organization. All of our volunteers work with HH&H out of the goodness of their hearts. 100% of donations and program proceeds go directly to the care of the birds and the development of our programs.
4. Can I volunteer for HH&H? Is there an age limit?
Please complete the “Book A Presentation” form on our Support page, provide your interests and age, and we will get back to you. We prefer that you are able to sign a release of liability form and can drive.
5. How does HH&H sustain viability?
HH&H does programs throughout the year at various locations including schools, libraries, retirement communities, festivals and more. Additionally, we host an annual Fundraiser in October and are grateful for our generous and faithful donors.
6. How do I make a donation? Are donations tax deductible?
There are several ways to make a donation. Our Support page provides information for donating via PayPal, Layne Labs, and Rodent Pro. We always send a follow-up letter that you can provide to your tax preparer.
7. Are there non-monetary ways to donate to HH&H?
Yes, there are other ways to donate, including:
- Gift cards
- Building materials
- Bird food – please see our Support page for details
- Attend our Annual Fundraiser
- Baskets/items for our Fundraiser (artwork, photography, etc)
GENERAL QUESTIONS
1. What do I do if I find an injured hawk or owl?
Do not put yourself in danger attempting to rescue a bird of prey. Remember, their talons are extremely sharp and they are very fast with their feet. Please call your local wildlife rescue organizations. Do not give the bird food or water and keep it contained in an area that is warm, dark, and quiet.
2. What do I do if I find a chick that has fallen out of its nest?
If you can safely re-nest it, please do, it’s the best thing for the chick. Understand that the parents are likely nearby watching and will ferociously defend their nest. If re-nesting is not possible, please follow the instructions above regarding finding an injured bird. Note: It is not true that the parents will reject a chick that has been put back into the nest because they can smell you. Most birds do not have a good sense of smell, the nest is the best place for the chick.
3. I have a problem with mice and rats at my home. Is it okay to use De-con or a similar product?
Please DO NOT poison mice/rats. They may get eaten by a hawk or owl and they can get secondary poisoning that can kill the bird. The best thing to do is build a Barn Owl Box and encourage Owls to occupy it. Barn Owls eat thousands of mice/rats every year and even more when they have a family.
4. How can I attract owls to my yard?
Build a Barn Owl Box! There are many resources on the internet for how to construct one, where to put it, what direction to face it, and other wonderful information.
© 2024 by Hawks Honkers & Hoots