Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre, Bird conservation center in Paradise Valley, Rotorua, New Zealand
Wingspan National Bird of Prey Centre is a breeding facility and research station for raptors situated on the slopes of Mount Ngongotahā in the Rotorua district. The facility focuses on conservation and study of New Zealand raptor species through specialized breeding programs and scientific work.
Conservation work with birds began in the 1980s, and the organization was formally established as a charitable trust in 1992. This founding phase set the mission to protect New Zealand raptors.
The centre preserves traditional falconry practices that are important to New Zealand's natural heritage. Visitors can observe how raptors are handled and trained within this cultural context.
The facility is located along Paradise Valley Road and offers flying demonstrations alongside educational tours. Visitors will have the best experience viewing the demonstrations when visiting during favorable weather conditions.
The centre focuses on breeding the kārearea falcon, a bird found only in New Zealand that exists in smaller numbers than the more famous kiwi species. These specialized breeding programs directly support the recovery of this critically endangered species.
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