There were 539 admissions in 2025. If domestic and non-native species (which BMW is not permitted to rehabilitate) are excluded, the total is reduced to 337. Of those, 164 were released and 4 are pending release or placement as education birds. That is a 49% release rate which is typical for BMW. The prevalence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in our region does not seem to have affected the release rate.

The BMW education team provided 24 education programs to 900 participants both on and off-site. New ambassador bird Rainy, a gyrfalcon/peregrine falcon hybrid, was the star of the show when 500 students attended an Oregon East Symphony Youth Concert featuring music inspired by Malheur Wildlife Refuge. Rainy greeted the students as they arrived for the concert. The situation was chaos and Rainy didn’t ruffle a feather.

The first admission of 2026 was an extremely emaciated Great Horned Owl 26-001. The owl had old injuries to her pelvis and left foot that made it impossible for her to hunt. Euthanasia was the only humane option.

Barn Owl 25-537 is improving after a collision that resulted in a head injury. He is stubbornly refusing to eat despite my best efforts at mouse presentation. As soon as we can convince him to eat, he will be moved outside to continue his recovery.    

Next to be released is Northern Pygmy Owl 25-524

Thank you to all supported BMW in 2025. We are ready to meet the challenges of 2026 with you by our side!