Beverly Carpenter, 2013
“In January of 2014, another totally new experience I explored was the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center where I started working in construction of the new flight cages for raptors in rehab.”
– Beverly
The Blackland Prairie Master Naturalist program seemed the perfect place for me to pursue my personal interest in life-long learning after my career in education. BPTMN was an opportunity to learn more about the environment around me and contribute through volunteering. As a member of the Class of 2013, primarily I volunteered at Holifield Science Learning Center, Heritage Farmstead and the Junior Naturalist Program at Wilson Middle School.
I also took a Saturday lab training session at the Heard Fossil lab where I was involved in the last stages of prepping the Mosasaur fossil then assisted with the installation of the exhibit. I was hooked on fossil prepping and have continued the past eight years working on the Stylemys nebrascensis, and Green River fish fossils and exhibit installations.
In 2016, I began working with the Rehab raptors which greatly expanded my knowledge and skills in the care and treatment of different raptor species with injuries and through the different stages of life. Baby season is extremely challenging and yet rewarding. Releasing rehabilitated raptors is exhilarating and a spiritual experience for me. Both are the beginning of a new life.
Webmaster's note - Beverly also added many of her home wildlife adventures with us through our Shaking of the Trees newletters. Thank you for sharing your flower, doves nest locations and more with us. - Michelle
