Conservancy staff photo, October 4, 2023
The Conservancy partnered with The Effie Yeaw Nature Center (Effie Yeaw) to bring Orion, a live Swainson’s hawk, for an educational presentation to the Conservancy’s Board of Directors and others involved in mitigation efforts on behalf of the hawk.
Orion is one of Effie Yeaw’s animal ambassadors. Operating since 1981 in Sacramento, Effie Yeaw offers education on wildlife, including face-to-face interactions and hands-on experiences.
Effie Yeaw’s demonstration at the Conservancy highlighted the Swainson’s hawk (Buteo swainsoni), a primary Covered Species in the Natomas Basin Habitat Conservation Plan (NBHCP). Despite the loss of habitat to urbanization, the hawk has maintained a presence in the Natomas Basin in part thanks to the NBHCP.
To see Orion and his impressive wingspan, click here for a clip of the presentation.