County fair welcomes back the Raptor Project

Ever wanted to meet an owl like Hedwig from Harry Potter or perhaps wanted to see eye to eye with an eagle? Now your opportunity awaits at 2007 Monmouth County Fair. The Raptor Project (Birds of Prey) returns to this year's attraction's lineup. The Raptor Project's director, Jonathon Wood, a federally licensed master falconer, wildlife rehabilitator, raptor propagator and game bird breeder, will present daily shows with his magnificent collection of rescued or rehabilitating birds.

The Raptor Project features feathered predators from all over the world. Many of these birds have permanent handicaps, preventing them from being reintroduced into the wild. Some have even faced euthanization at crowded wildlife centers across the country, but are now tamed and trained to educate the public as charming ambassadors of their species, bringing appreciation and awareness of their important role in the environment. Spectators can experience a royal thrill as Wood displays the skill and agility of these magnificent birds in both indoor and outdoor free-flying demonstrations. The Raptor Project's extraordinary and outstanding array of eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls are sure to enthrall audiences.

The Raptor Project will adjoin the perennial favorite Bwana Jim's Reptile Show who will also be presenting at the fair all five days.

For more information about the Monmouth County Fair, call (732) 842-4000. A copy of the full Fair schedule can be found online at www.monmouthcuontyparks.com.