The Dolly Parton Eagle Rehabilitation Center, located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation and release of injured and orphaned birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, owls, and falcons. The center was founded in 1991 by country music legend Dolly Parton, who has a passion for wildlife conservation and animal welfare.
History
The Dolly Parton Eagle Rehabilitation Center began as a small operation on Dolly Parton's Dollywood theme park grounds. It was run by a handful of volunteers who were passionate about birds of prey and their conservation. Over the years, the center expanded and moved to a larger location in Pigeon Forge, where it continues to operate today.
Facilities
The Dolly Parton Eagle Rehabilitation Center has state-of-the-art facilities that are designed to meet the needs of the injured birds that are brought in. The center has a large flight cage, a rehabilitation center, and an education center. The flight cage is where the birds can exercise and practice their hunting skills before being released back into the wild. The rehabilitation center is where the birds receive medical care, including surgeries and medication. The education center is where visitors can learn about the birds and their importance to the ecosystem.
Services
The Dolly Parton Eagle Rehabilitation Center provides a range of services to injured birds of prey. These services include medical care, rehabilitation, and release back into the wild. The center also provides education and outreach programs to the public, including school groups and community organizations. Visitors can take part in guided tours of the facilities and learn about the importance of bird conservation.
Success Stories
The Dolly Parton Eagle Rehabilitation Center has had many success stories over the years. One of the most notable is the center's work with bald eagles. Bald eagles were once on the brink of extinction, but thanks to conservation efforts like those at the Dolly Parton Eagle Rehabilitation Center, their populations have rebounded. The center has released many bald eagles back into the wild, where they are now thriving.
Volunteer Opportunities
The Dolly Parton Eagle Rehabilitation Center relies on the support of volunteers to carry out its mission. Volunteers can help with a range of tasks, including caring for the birds, assisting with educational programs, and helping with fundraising and outreach. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and able to commit to a minimum of 4 hours per week.
Donations
The Dolly Parton Eagle Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization and relies on the support of donations to continue its work. Donations can be made online or by mail, and can be one-time or recurring. The center also accepts in-kind donations, such as bird food and medical supplies.
Conclusion
The Dolly Parton Eagle Rehabilitation Center is a remarkable organization that has made a significant impact on bird conservation in the United States. Through its dedication to rehabilitating injured birds of prey and educating the public about their importance, the center has helped to ensure the survival of many species. If you are interested in supporting the center's work, consider making a donation or volunteering your time.