Return to the wild

Posted on September 18, 2025 by Sunny South News

By Kristine Jean
Sunny South News

While the Alberta Birds of Prey Centre in Coaldale may be closed for the season, their work often continues year-round. 

Each year, the centre receives many calls from residents in the City of Lethbridge and surrounding areas, requesting assistance for injured and orphaned birds. After months of rehabilitation at the centre, the birds are re-released to the wild. 

Coaldale Mayor Jack Van Rijn was recently joined by Lethbridge Mayor Blaine Hyggen, for a special event releasing several raptors including four Swainson’s Hawks, one Merlin Falcon and one Short-eared Owl, back to the wild over the Lethbridge river valley on Sept. 10.  

“Being part of releasing these birds of prey back into the wild is truly humbling. It’s a reminder of the vital role conservation plays right here in southern Alberta,” said Van Rijn. “The Birds of Prey Centre is not only rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife, it’s showcasing what our region stands for – collaboration, stewardship, and pride in preserving our natural heritage.”

“The Centre is a little gem and a major stakeholder in Coaldale, Van Rijn added. “Colin Weir and his team bring tourism, education, and conservation together, all without government subsidies, relying instead on the generosity of residents.” 

In a press release, the Alberta Birds of Prey Centre noted that with winter quickly approaching, the fall migration has already begun and Swainson’s Hawks have the farthest journey. They often gather in large flocks and fly south to Argentina.

The Birds of Prey Centre in Coaldale was started by Wendy Slaytor and Colin Weir.  

Focusing on birds of prey, including eagles, owls, hawks and falcons, the centre has provided volunteer wildlife rescue and release since 1983. The facility opened to the public in 1991 and since then, they have showcased the wildlife of southern Alberta by delivering inspiring, environmental learning opportunities every spring and summer. The facility continues to operate year-round on a volunteer basis, without government subsidies. 

“The City of Lethbridge and Town of Coaldale have been instrumental and very appreciated with their leadership and support, helping make our facility and conservation work possible,” said Colin Weir, executive director at the Alberta Birds of Prey Centre. 

Although the Alberta Birds of Prey Centre closed for the season on Labour Day Monday, the centre was open on Sept. 13 and 14, and will be open for a second special weekend with seasonal hours between 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sept. 20 and 21. The weekend will include several regular features such as eagle demonstrations at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., and owl presentations at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. both days, as well as owl photo opportunities throughout the weekend.    

The Alberta Birds of Prey Centre will re-open in May 2026.