Carolina Raptor Center

As the world gathers for the 2026 World Cup, we’re highlighting a feathered representative of our host nation, the Bald Eagle. 🦅⚽️

The United States national bird, the Bald Eagle, has long symbolized American identity, representing independence, resilience, and strength since officially being adopted in 1782. As a top predator native to North America, they play an important role in healthy ecosystems, using exceptional vision and powerful flight to thrive across rivers, lakes, and coastal regions.

Just like nations competing on the biggest stage in the World Cup, the Bald Eagle embodies the idea of representing something larger than itself, soaring with purpose, defending its territory and standing as a symbol of unity and pride for the country it represents. 🇺🇸

Join us at Carolina Raptor Center on July 3 for Eagle Extravaganza, a special celebration all about these incredible birds of prey. Experience up-close Eagle encounters, learn what makes them such elite aerial athletes, and discover why they continue to capture national attention both in the wild and in American culture. 💙❤️

🔗 Learn more and get your tickets at the link below!

https://carolinaraptorcenter.org/eagle-extravaganza/

📸 Our 2027 Calendar Photography Contest is open!

We’re looking for striking, high-quality photographs of raptors native to the Carolinas, or of our avian ambassadors.

🪶 What we’re looking for:

- Sharp, high-resolution wildlife images
- Strong composition and lighting
- Moments that capture natural behavior or personality
- Creative, compelling perspectives of raptors in their environment

🏆 Judging will be based on overall visual impact, technical quality, originality, and how well the image represents raptors of the Carolinas.

We are accepting submissions through June 30, 2026. Winners will be notified by the end of July 2026.

Full entry rules, eligibility requirements, and detailed photo guidelines can all be found on our website at the link in our bio!

Please review carefully before entering.

📸 Submit your best shot here:

https://carolinaraptorcenter.org/2026/05/06/2027-calendar-photography-contest/

Carolina Raptor Center has modified its existing lease agreement with Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation, marking a strategic shift in long-term planning while reaffirming its partnership in advancing nature-based education and conservation in the region.

CRC is proud to have partnered with Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation in the fundraising and construction of Quest Nature Center, a community asset that opened in 2021. The collaboration has provided thousands of visitors with opportunities to connect with nature and learn about environmental stewardship.

As part of the original vision for the Quest campus, a second phase included development of a new Raptor Trail and facilities on approximately 20 acres of land behind Quest Nature Center. However, unforeseen challenges significantly impacted the project’s timeline and feasibility, including the COVID-19 pandemic, escalating construction costs, and broader industry changes.

“Like many organizations, we have had to thoughtfully reassess our priorities in response to changing circumstances,” said Gabor Zsuppan, Executive Director of CRC. “We remain deeply committed to our mission and welcome the opportunity to serve raptors and our community even better through strategic investments and enhancements at this beautiful campus in Latta Nature Preserve that we’ve called home for forty-plus years.”

CRC is now focused on the next phase of development at its existing site at 6000 Sample Road, with improvements to strengthen animal care operations and enhance the visitor experience. Planned upgrades include redesigned raptor enclosures, expanded accessibility features, and new visitor amenities to enrich educational engagement and guest satisfaction.

CRC will continue to maintain a strong partnership with Quest Nature Center through educational programming, outreach initiatives, and collaborative efforts that support connecting the community with nature.

The lease modification positions CRC and Quest Nature Center to maximize impact while maintaining a longstanding cooperative relationship. CRC remains dedicated to environmental education, conservation, and the rehabilitation of birds of prey.

The countdown is on! Birdies for Birdies is almost here, and Family Night kicks things off THIS FRIDAY! 🦅💚

Grab your crew and join us for an evening of mini golf along the Raptor Trail, lawn games, a themed photo opportunity, and delicious eats from the Burgers & Soul Food Truck. It's the perfect way to kick off a fun-filled weekend while supporting Carolina Raptor Center!

Then keep the fun going on Saturday for Adults Night, featuring mini golf, beer & wine, live music, a themed photo opportunity, and the International Truck of Tacos.

🎟️ Tee times are limited and are selling fast!

Don't wait until your favorite time slot is gone! Reserve your tee time today and get ready for a one-of-a-kind mini golf experience.

📅 Family Night: Friday, June 5 / 5PM-8PM

📅 Adults Night: Saturday, June 6 / 5PM-8PM

Tag your mini golf team below and secure your spot before we sell out! ⛳🦉

https://carolinaraptorcenter.org/birdies-for-birdies/

Pick your night and join us on the Raptor Trail for Birdies for Birdies! ⛳️

Whether you’re bringing your whole flock or it’s a Saturday date night, this unique after hours mini golf experience is sure to be a hole-in-one! Enjoy 9 holes of mini golf, meet our incredible Avian Ambassadors, and support raptor conservation and education along the way.

Family Night: Friday, June 5th from 5PM-8PM

Adults Night: Saturday, June 6th from 5PM-8PM

Pick your tee time at the link below!

https://carolinaraptorcenter.org/birdies-for-birdies/

Which night are you picking? 🏌️‍♂️💚