Uploaded November 2017 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
In the wild, raptors are kept engaged by their environment, their neighbors, and the need to hunt for food. When non-releasable raptors become permanent residents at the CRC, we can enhance their lives in captivity by giving them opportunities to perform natural behaviors. Such "enrichment" can come in many forms, and in the video above, Kalli the American Kestrel is receiving some new enrichment in the form of a fuzzy toy ball!
Wild raptors have been observed "playing" with non-food objects like sticks and leaves by footing (grabbing) the vegetation in their talons, an activity that may help hone their hunting and motor skills. Here, under close supervision, Kalli engages in similar behaviors as she chases, nibbles, and foots the ball.
In the wild, raptors are kept engaged by their environment, their neighbors, and the need to hunt for food. When non-releasable raptors become permanent residents at the CRC, we can enhance their lives in captivity by giving them opportunities to perform natural behaviors. Such "enrichment" can come in many forms, and in the video above, Kalli the American Kestrel is receiving some new enrichment in the form of a fuzzy toy ball!
Wild raptors have been observed "playing" with non-food objects like sticks and leaves by footing (grabbing) the vegetation in their talons, an activity that may help hone their hunting and motor skills. Here, under close supervision, Kalli engages in similar behaviors as she chases, nibbles, and foots the ball.
