Dominican students flocked to the D.A. in January to visit with a few feathery friends during a presentation hosted by the Science Club. Raptor rehabilitator Ms. Sally Farrell turned DHS into a bird sanctuary with her presentation of Wind in My Feathers.
Known for her great speed and keen vision, Yeshua the Saker falcon flaunts beauty in the D.A. during the Science Club’s presentation of Wind in My Feathers in January.
Guest speaker Ms. Sally Farrell shares her knowledge of raptors and ecology to educates students about the important role these bird play in the environment.
Ms. Farrell introduced five raptors, including a red-tailed hawk, a Saker falcon and a vulture, to the audience. She enlightened students about the birds’ feathers, habits, and routines and emphasized the important ecological role of raptors in the environment. Her presentation stressed the importance of protecting these animals and taught students that they have the power to work towards a better environment, as well.
Dominican’s Science Club fosters an awareness of science and learning, encompassing all different branches of science. “Science Club offers a more fun and interactive way to learn about science outside of a regular classroom setting,” said senior Lauren Richards, club president. By bringing in the raptors, the club recognized the work Ms. Farrell does in name of rescuing and caring for the raptors.
“The Science Club brings in members of the local community who can foster a greater understanding of the role that different areas of science play in our lives,” said Mrs. Karen Plauche, Science Club moderator.
Ms. Farrell began her career in the avian field when she volunteered at the Wild Bird Rehab Center at the Audubon Zoo. At the time, she knew very little about birds and didn’t even know what the word “raptor” meant. Getting to know the raptors persuaded her to pursue her current position as an occupation. Over time, Ms. Farrell began inviting rescued birds into her home to take care of them.
“Learning about the birds was extremely eye opening,” said senior Josie Wood. “Until Ms. Farrell started speaking about rescuing the birds, I didn’t notice the importance of these animals in our environment.”
Ms. Farrell encouraged the DHS audience to work for better world for humans and animals alike. “You are going to be the creators and designers of the environment,” said Ms. Farrell concluding her presentation. “You can be anything you want, but make sure it’s good for the environment.”
- Jennifer Yrle