Raptors and birds of prey hold a vital place in our ecosystem, but their survival is not guaranteed. Orphaned, injured or sick birds of prey need help, and that’s where RAPTOR Inc. steps in to rescue, rehabilitate and release if possible. The organization also works to bring conservation education and STEM learning to life for students and adults throughout the tri-state area. Southwest Ohio Parent spoke to Steve Wesselkamper, executive director of RAPTOR Inc., to learn more about this unique organization.
Tell us about RAPTOR Inc.
RAPTOR Inc. is a Milford-based nonprofit that connects people to the natural world through up-close encounters with our education ambassador raptors, showing why these birds matter to healthy ecosystems.
We rescue and treat orphaned, injured and sick owls, hawks, falcons, eagles and vultures with the goal of returning every patient to the wild. When injuries prevent release, some birds become education ambassadors for our community programs. Every program, rescue and bird helps spark a deeper understanding of wildlife and our shared environment. When we protect raptors, we protect the world we all depend on. Saving the wild. Saving us.
What is your impact?
Our education team delivers hundreds of programs each year. In 2025, we presented 410 programs that reached more than 18,000 people across southwest Ohio. Our rehab team runs the RAPTOR Hospital, where we care for 350 to 400 raptors each year, releasing about two-thirds into their natural habitats. That rate is roughly twice the national average.
One great-horned owl rescued in 1997 went on to live 28 more years in the wild. That bird likely raised around 40 owlets over the years. That’s conservation with feathers and a family tree attached.
What will my kids experience at a RAPTOR program?
Kids meet education ambassador birds face-to-face and dive into interactive, hands-on science activities. The near extinction of eagles and peregrine falcons in the 1960s and their recovery offer a powerful lesson in how connected living things are to their environments. Today, the barn owl, with its heart-shaped facial disc, is a threatened species in Ohio. When raptors vanish, it often signals bigger environmental problems that affect people, too.
Is RAPTOR Inc. open to the public?
RAPTOR Inc. hosts monthly open houses at our Milford location on the last Sunday of each month from March through November from 1 to 4 p.m. We also bring programs directly to schools, libraries, retirement centers, community events and private groups. Behind-the-scenes tours offer a closer look at the birds and their care. Visit www.raptorinc.org/education or call 513-825-3325 to learn more or book a program.
What should we do if we find an injured raptor?
Call RAPTOR Inc. at 513-825-3325. Our dispatcher will walk you through what to do next and help ensure the bird gets proper care while keeping you safe.
How can families in Southwest Ohio support RAPTOR Inc.?
RAPTOR Inc. relies on community support. Visit our website (www.raptorinc.org) to learn about becoming a member, booking a program or sponsoring a bird.
Can families get involved beyond a one-time visit?
Many families stay connected through repeat visits, seasonal events and ongoing programs. Businesses use RAPTOR volunteer opportunities for team building. Tell us your interests, and we’ll work with you to find a way to stay involved.
