Rehabilitated hawk released back into the wild

On Saturday, May 4, Mission Viejo Animal Services Officer Alex Ceballos attended a special event to release rehabilitated birds of prey back into the wild.  

"It is so amazing to get to see these birds going back to where they belong," said Alex as a crowd of supporters formed around him.  "Typically, we only see them when they're hurt.  Being here today really brings everything full circle!"  

During the event, Alex was excited to release a red shouldered hawk and great horned owl (one of his favorite animals).  

Saturday's event was one of a few raptor release events hosted by the Orange County Bird of Prey Center, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to treating and rehabilitating injured raptors and returning them to the wild.  To promote education, the organization hosts several events including releases.  Education is the best long-term solution to prevent and mitigate many dangers raptors face.  Mission Viejo Animal Services is proud to partner with OC Bird of Prey to help rescue and eventually return these amazing animals to the wild.

For more information about the organization, visit www.ocbpc.org.