Raptor Enrichment Program

MISSION STATEMENT:

Our mission is to promote and enhance raptor habitat in our electric utility Cooperative service area as a part of our Energy for Wildlife Program.

Our process will entail learning about the species, their habitats, their livelihood and the protection that the State of Indiana carries on each species.We will enhance their habitats by using species specific nesting boxes, platforms and perches, which will primarily be constructed from recycled materials such as retired poles and cross arms.

Our goal is to work close with Indiana state DNR officials in this process and to educate community groups and members in our service area.

We feel this will offset the removal of the dead trees and snags that are normally used by these species for nesting and hunting. These trees are removed as a safe-guard to our power lines and the electrical service provided to our members and will be a proactive approach while enhancing habitat.

We realize that the average property owner and action groups are limited in their ability to promote habitat for raptor species due to height requirements and equipment needed to achieve the habitat requirements needed.

The following species will be the focus and target of our efforts:

Owls 

• Eastern Screech Owl
• Great Horned Owl
• Barn Owl
• Barred Owl

Large Hawk Species

•  Northern (Hen) Harrier
• Bald Eagle
• Red-Tailed Hawk

Small Hawk Species

•  American Kestrel
• Cooper’s Hawk
• Red-shouldered Hawk