John Jay High School Students Learn about Birds of Prey

By Sarah Studley

Students in John Jay High School’s AP Environmental Science and Wilderness classes enjoyed a hands-on day of outdoor learning on Oct. 26, thanks to master falconer Lori Schumacher and her staff.

The presentation, made possible through BOCES, featured fascinating birds including Prince Ravi, a Saker falcon; Oliver, a barn owl; Big Momma, a European eagle owl; and Macchu, a Harris’ hawk.

The presentation was held on the school’s front lawn and allowed students to learn about the physiology and anatomy of the birds, as well as their ecological importance, as the raptors demonstrated their abilities and adaptations. Students learned that humans must be mindful of maintaining the habitats of the birds of prey to ensure both their survival and the sustainability of the ecosystem.

Photo 1: John Jay High School AP Environmental Science student Jack Lynch works with master falconer Lori Schumacher to compare his “wingspan” to that of Big Momma, a European eagle owl; Photo 2: John Jay High School AP Environmental Science students with Lori Schumacher holding Oliver, a barn owl, during a birds of prey visit on Oct. 26. Photos credit: Katonah-Lewisboro School District