Their faces have been telling our story for 45 years. We present wildlife. We don’t re-present wildlife via photographs, paintings, sculptures, or videos (We do, however, have one of the largest raptor video libraries in America on our YouTube Channel) Our presentations are of living raptors in all their majesty, power, and glory. As you can see, our encounters produce awe, which inspires respect and curiosity, especially with children. We answer their questions with more than a century of combined experience and expertise based on science, and field observations. We integrate, science, culture, and the arts into the most comprehensive raptor encounter for all audiences. Photo by Anne Price.
| A Few Quick REF History Links: White House Visit, Colorado’s First Environmental License Plates, Best Raptor Book Ever, The Best Raptor ID Class, Our Raptors Cruise to Alaska, Consulting on National Memorial Sculpture, US Naval War College Special Program, Colorado Parks & Wildlife, Birds of Prey International Skiing Championships, International Falconry Festival, National Geographic, State & County Fairs, Natural Solutions Consulting Services, You may also scroll up and down from any of the quick links for many more noteworthy points in our history. |
Another First: Since REF’s inception in 1980, we have been hearing stories of peregrine falcons nesting in downtown Denver. This year (2024), with a little help from some friends, and a lot from sponsors, we actually documented a peregrine eyrie in Denver’s cement, steel, and glass canyons. For more exclusive videos, just click.
In 1980 we created the concept of using live raptors to connect children to the natural world. No symbols, no pictures, no models, no taxidermy, just the magic of a live eagle, hawk, falcon or owl directly in front of the audience. That magic still works today. Thanks to everyone who has supported our mission and our birds.
National War Memorial
When experience and knowledge matter, people, businesses, organizations, agencies of government and even artists have been turning to Raptor Education Foundation for a variety of natural solutions to challenges they encounter. Sculptor, Robert Eccleston, explains why he engaged REF to help him with his internationally important commission: The Desert Storm War Memorial to be placed on the National Mall in America’s capital.
REF is very proud to contribute our small part to Robert’s beautiful tribute recognizing the warriors who sacrificed their lives and fortunes during the successful liberation of Kuwait. We look forward to seeing Robert’s talents and hard work reaching completion as the saker falcon and the bald eagle, poured in stainless steel, rise above the dunes on the National Mall. This video expands on the importance of the raptors for the memorial.
US Naval War College Special
“We thoroughly enjoyed your presentation. It ranks as one of the most informative and memorable presentations we’ve had since I’ve been doing this.” Commander Mark D. Yehl, USN : Director, Naval Staff College,
Greetings from Los Angeles. We’re writing to let you know that Raptor Education Foundation has been included in our recently published video wiki “Important Groups Devoted To Birds,” which you may reference here by clicking on the image below and then clicking on Raptor Education Foundation’s Logo.
Many of our millions of monthly visitors will now be exposed to your work. Some background: Founded in 2011, Ezvid Wiki was the world’s first video wiki, and is now among the top 3,000 websites in the United States. Our YouTube channel has over 600,000 subscribers, with over 350 million views since founding.
The Wiki never accepts payment for inclusion in any wiki, however, we do ask that, as a favor, you do link to this published wiki page from your official website.
We know the digital universe reaches far beyond our small feathered world, and when this notice arrived, I can’t say I wasn’t completely surprised. Thanks to the folks at Video Wiki for this recognition. To be included with The International Crane Foundation is truly an honor. ICF’s Co-Founder, Dr. George W. Archibald provided important back ground information for our first project in the then Soviet Union. After 41 years and in the midst of a pandemic world we will take any good news!
Peter Reshetniak: Founder
Our first Raptor Summit in 2021 with COVID 19 restrictions lifted presented at the Inner City School in Denver. We created a special version of this program for the school with a focus on the bald eagle, the school’s mascot.
The Best School Programs
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Endorsing Winners!
Since the opening of the Birds of Prey ski course in 1997, our female golden eagle has been on the podium with dozens of winning champion international skiers. 2019 was a very special year as this video reveals. The weather really didn’t keep anyone indoors (at least not for long) and it was absolutely thrilling to be on the sidelines and watch Tommy Ford come down the hill, fast as a peregrine. It’s been a few years since our golden’s been next to an American on the podium, and all of us, from spectators to volunteers, media and Tommy’s teammates on the US Ski Team were just giddy with excitement! Just to be clear, you don’t “lose” a place on the podium by much: Tommy was just 0.80 seconds ahead of Henrik Kristoffersen and 1.23 seconds ahead of Leif Kristian Nestvold-Haugen, both of Norway, who placed second and third, respectively. Shouldn’t we be part of your winning team? Call us at 303-680-8500 or send an e-mail to PR@usaref.org.
Their Faces Tell Our Story
Since 1980 the best advocates for our programs are the children who experience raptor magic early in their lives. Their faces are our testimonials!
I have attended numerous presentations and photo-shoots with REF for the past 4 yrs. I couldn’t recommend any organization more strongly. Peter and his crew are experts in the raptor world and impeccably organized through all types of pubic interactions. Raptor Education Foundation’s deep 24/7 commitment to the raptors is obvious and always their motivating factor. Although I am a doctor of humans, it seems they provide world-class care for their 30 eagles, owls, hawks and falcons. They offer incredible quality in their work, and it always feels to me I am getting a lot more from them than the cost of the activity! I give them the strongest recommendation!
Sharon L. Minzer, M.D. 9/09/19
C Lazy U Ranch
Colorado’s Premier Guest Ranch since 1919
August 2018
Your team was absolutely delightful. Our guests and members really enjoyed the program and overall, I’d say it was a great success.Thank you for your support and for protecting and educating people about raptors!
David Craig:General Manager: C Lazy U Ranch
Thank you so much for the amazing Raptor Rendezvous presentation. It truly was a fantastic experience and I was completely in awe of your program. I have heard so much positive feedback from our guests, members and staff! It was a very special addition to our program and I look forward to working with you all more in the future. It was an absolute pleasure working with you and the REF team from start to finish, I can’t tell you enough how much I appreciate it all.
Mackenzie Brenneman: Director of Member Services
Colorado Parks & Wildlife
In 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 ( Zoom ), 2021 (live & Zoom), 2022, 2023, 2024 (live & Zoom) Colorado Parks & Wildlife hosted REF’s Raptor ID Course, or one of REF’s custom-tailored programs for all of their state park raptor monitors during their annual meeting. The extensive Raptor ID course benefits from REF’s live raptor collection and more than 4 decades of working with a wide variety of American raptors. The custom courses feature a variety of raptor species and the exceptional scope of raptor knowledge presented by REF President and Curator, Anne Price.
“As a coordinator of a volunteer raptor monitoring program, I am always looking for ways to educate and inspire our citizen science project participants. I have been working with REF for many years and they continue to provide an amazing experience for our group. The opportunity to see raptor species up close is inspirational and Anne does a fantastic job of describing the field marks and behavioral characteristics of the species she presents. It is also very educational to hear the story of each bird and how they came to be ambassadors for wild birds of prey. I look forward to continued work with REF so that we can continue to motivate folks to be active participants in raptor conservation.”
Jeff Thompson, Resource Stewardship Program Coordinator, Colorado Parks & Wildlife
12/5/2017
Inspire your team with our corporate programs!
36th FIPS Mouche World Fly Fishing Championships
Seeking the best in natural history programming, the 36th FIPS Mouche World Fly Fishing Championships contracted REF to educate the competitive teams from 27 different countries gathered in Vail, Colorado, September 11, 2016 about some of the raptors native to the area. REF’s program was presented during the opening ceremonies and banquet at the Vail Marriot Hotel & Spa.
“Thank you for providing the cultural component for our opening ceremony and dinner. The raptor presentation was outstanding and shared a piece of the American West to our guests. The informative talks on each bird were educational and enlightening. To have the one raptor utilized for our team pictures was a highlight for all. The hard work of the Raptor Education Foundation staff’s preparations paid off with satisfied attendees and smiles everywhere.
I would recommend the Raptor Education Foundation for any group or event that wants to feel the majesty of these iconic birds in their presence while also learning about their care and how they interact with nature.”John W. Knight, International Organizer: 36th FIPS Mouche World Fly Fishing Championships.
The Best Raptor ID Courses Available In Colorado!
“I attended your Raptor ID class over the weekend at Barr Lake State Park and had an AMAZING experience meeting the raptors up close and learning about the different ID traits. I was blown away.”
Jesse Carlson, Wildlife Biologist:Kimley-Horn, October 21, 2024
“Just a quick note to tell you how much I enjoyed the class over the weekend! It was my first time out and was so impressed by the facility and the raptors. Your knowledge is mind boggling and the education I received was amazing!!! My new ability to make an educated guess is already driving my family crazy. I look forward to attending more events and spending more time learning about the raptors and all that your organization does.”
Kirsten Medeiros for Signs of Spring, 2017
“I had a great time at the class and, as usual, learned so many things and had such an enriching experience. The teachers are great and the birds are great, what more could I want?”
Deborah Carstensen- Signs of Spring, 2017
“I attended the raptor identification class yesterday, September 25, 2016. I want to let you know that I thoroughly enjoyed what was for me a beginning lesson in identification of raptors. I am far from expert with songbirds but I feel comfortable with my ability to identify them. Raptors have been difficult and now I know why. The combination of the excellent slides and the live birds gave me a feel for how to go about identification. I know it will take a lot of practice and I will avail myself of future opportunities to attend classes.Thank you for a very special day.”
Bonnie Holdeman Dalke
“I came to the Raptor ID course yesterday (9/25/16) It was very enjoyable and informative, I will be back. All the employees were very knowledgeable and willing to answer any questions… Thanks for a great day,”
Robert (Bob) Magee
3rd International Falconry Festival
In December, 2014, the 3rd International Falconry Festival, held in Abu Dahbi, recognized REF by sponsoring REF’s Curator, Anne Price, to attend this international gathering representing almost 80 different countries. REF was the only raptor education organization in the United States to be sponsored, and Anne presented REF’s work in the education pavilion.
Anne is pictured holding an American bald eagle during the parade of nations.
The National Geographic Society
In 2012 The National Geographic Society contracted REF to provide special programming for their signature BioBlitz event held in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Frontier Airlines
Natural solutions for rabbit, pigeon, and other pest problems
Click on the letter of recommendation to see full text.
During 2006-2010 at Denver International Airport, REF developed and implemented a pigeon control program at one of the airport’s hangars for Frontier Airlines. Using its exclusive Large Area Integrated Prey Management System REF eliminated 95% of the pests within 6 months along with the collateral risk of zoonotic diseases spread by thousands of pounds of pigeon fecal matter deposited within the hangar facility. By March, 2009, REF was maintaining a 99.9% success rate at the Frontier facility, however, this project closed when Frontier Airlines was purchased and their heavy maintenance operations were moved at the behest of Republic Airlines, their new owners. REF used the pigeon’s normal behaviors against them. The same methodology works with cottontail rabbits, thereby eliminating the need for using any toxic substances, which includes anti-coagulants.
The Raptors of North America
The best introduction to raptors is back!
Winner of the 2020 Skipping Stones Honor Award
for Nature and Ecology Books
In 1984, REF published the first professionally produced coloring book for all ages. Illustrated by one of the world’s best wildlife artists, Donald Malick, with a foreword by the peerless, Roger Tory Peterson, this classic was in print for 32 years. The original book’s text was written by Dr. Frances Hammerstrom, renown raptor researcher and writer, while subsequent revised and expanded editions were written by REF’s Curator, Anne Price. Read a review.
The completely revised edition is now available from the University of New Mexico Press, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble. This new edition features color throughout with added features guaranteed to help everyone enhance their raptor experience!
This exceptional book continues Raptor Education Foundation’s educational mission into its 45th year. Includes Roger Tory Peterson’s foreword. Judged by years in print, and units sold, this is the best book on raptors published anywhere.
El Pomar Foundation
In 1999, the El Pomar Foundation, recognized REF’s environmental education work.
Colorado Respects Wildlife license plates
In 1999, working with Colorado legislators, Colorado Governor Bill Owens and numerous county officials, REF designed and issued Colorado’s first–ever motor vehicle license plates featuring an environmental/wildlife theme and benefiting REF’s environmental literacy mission. The Colorado Respects Wildlife license plates are available only to qualified REF members.
California Academy of Sciences
“I wish to highly commend… the Raptor Education Foundation for their sterling performances held here at the California Academy of Sciences, April 10 -19, 1998. …The participation of REF was instrumental in contributing to the success of our raptor exhibit, Hunters of the Sky. The program that REF offers is unique in that it provides an opportunity for the public to see and watch raptors fly ‘up close and personal’, yet it also imparts to the audience an appreciation for the global ecology of raptors.”
From Douglas A. Bell, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Associate, Department of Ornithology & Mammalogy, California Academy of Sciences
Read what teachers and children say about our programs.
Animal Planet
The international television program, Animal Planet, featured REF’s work on the Emergency Vets series.
Birds of Prey World Championships
Since the opening of the Birds of Prey race course in Beaver Creek, Colorado in 1997, our raptors have been connecting local and international audiences to the power, speed, ecology, and cultural aspects of the raptors, which are the namesakes of the Birds of Prey race course. The FIS Ski World Cup racers recognize Birds of Prey as one of the most difficult courses in the world.
Our 37 year old female golden eagle is viewed by tens of millions of people world-wide during ESPN’s global broadcasts from the races each year. In the top image, Anne Price, REF’s Curator is being interviewed with our female golden for French television audiences (live) during the races. In the bottom image, our eagle is part of the awards presentations for both the women and men championship winners.
With the passing of our female golden eagle at age 40, our female bald eagle has now become the raptor ambassador at the races with a continual presence into 2024.
Best of Denver-1995, Westword Magazine
“What separates this organization from others dedicated to preserving wildlife is its focus on bringing information to school children. Since 1980, when the foundation got its start, REF representatives have presented a one-hour program about eagles, hawks, falcons, owls and other birds of prey to well over half a million students both here in Colorado and in in states such as Ohio, New Mexico, and Nevada. And these displays aren’t boring affairs filled with faded slides. Instead, falcons and the like are the stars of a show that teaches kids about ecological diversity without the kids realizing how much they’re learning.”
RAPTORS, The Birds of Prey, An Almanac of Hawks, Eagles, and Falcons of the World
Scott Weidensaul’s book, published in 1996 by Lyons & Burford, and arguably still the most comprehensive compendium on diurnal raptors ever produced, listed only 29 raptor organizations in its chapter, “Helping Raptors.” The Raptor Education Foundation was the only Colorado organization included.
Statewide cross promotional campaign
1989-1990-REF’s statewide cross promotional campaign reached tens of thousands of people with special educational raptor stickers and a state-wide tour of schools. Partners included 7-11 stores, Pepsi, Oscar Meyer, and numerous media companies. This is still the largest raptor promotion in Colorado ever done by anyone.
State & County Fairs
From being the first raptor organization to provide a live raptor display at the National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colorado, we were quickly in demand at some of the largest fairs and festivals in the United States. We were booked into the California State Fair, the Western Washington State Fair, and the Ohio State Fair. You could find our raptors in Memphis, Las Cruces, New York, Virginia, Las Vegas, and even the nation’s capital.
Alaskan Cruise Ship Market
We were the first educational organization to provide live raptor programs for the Alaskan cruise ship market. This involved support from both U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and their Canadian counterparts as we crossed into international waters.
White House Meeting
1982: REF’s President meets with VP George Bush, during a special commemoration recognizing the bald eagle’s 200th anniversary as America’s living national symbol.
REF presents George H. Bush the first bald eagle replica created from waterfowl feathers as a tribute for the bald eagle’s 200th birthday as our national symbol.
The replica is now housed in the Smithsonian Museum. Pictured with VP Bush is William F. Greve (left) REF Director, and Peter Reshetniak (right), REF Founder and President.