About Us
To identify and address vital environmental issues by providing medical care to injured birds of prey and shorebirds, and through educational, research and conservation initiatives.
The Avian Conservation Center and its principal operating division, The Center for Birds of Prey:
- Operates a professional avian medical clinic for injured birds of prey and some shorebird species
- Offers on-site and outreach educational programs to students and adults
- Conducts relevant field and laboratory research studies
- Participates in and supports international conservation issues
- Is a first line responder for oiled birds in the event of a contaminant spill affecting native bird populations and their fragile breeding habitats along the South Atlantic coast
- Serves as a primary resource for creating ongoing awareness of the ecological impacts of a contaminant spill and proactive measures available to reduce the likelihood of such an event
The Avian Conservation Center is a nonprofit, 501(c)3 corporate entity founded in 1991 to contribute to the fields of science, education, and conservation.
Wild birds are among the world's most illuminating sentinel species. Birds are numerous, conspicuous, diverse, widespread, and particularly sensitive to environmental changes. The ecological status of wild birds directly reflects the condition of the ecosystem and biodiversity as a whole. Environmental issues that impact wild bird populations often have potential human health implications as well.
Ideally situated on a 150-acre campus near Charleston, South Carolina, The Center is dedicated to the study and welfare of birds and their habitats and to engaging the public in important environmental issues that affect birds and humans alike.
Operating 365 days a year with support from more than 80 trained and dedicated volunteer staff members, the Center's medical clinic treats nearly 400 injured birds of prey each year. The Center has treated and released thousands of injured birds since its founding in 1991.
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