"Kestrel in Love" Fundraiser at Mary D. Fisher Theatre in Sedona!
In the heart of International Raptor & Falconry Center’s (IRFC) conservation efforts is, "Kestrel in Love" that unfolds a testament to passion and commitment to saving these incredible American Kestrels, North America’s smallest falcon species. The multifaceted event, dedicated to the memory of Finley, a star in American Kestrel conservation, will serve as both a celebration of his legacy and the introduction to Lennox, the torchbearer of his mission.
Finley was a bossy and gregarious American Kestrel that inspired countless to care about these tiny falcons fighting for survival in the wild. With his sweet and silly demeanor, Finley fostered a love for American Kestrels that transcended his life.
Tragically, Finley's journey was cut short, leaving a void in the IRFC’s American Kestrel conservation program. This fundraiser revitalizes our "Kestrel in Love" an American Kestrel conservation campaign throughout the month of February and is a fundraiser to raise funds to continue and expand our mission. The spotlight will turn to Lennox, a protégé of Finley entrusted with the responsibility of carrying forward the torch.
Lennox is a sweet nine-month-old male American Kestrel and currently going through his training paces. Lennox has the task of filling the big talons left behind by Finley. This fundraiser is a poignant transition, with the blending nostalgia for Finley's legacy with the anticipation of Lennox's new call to duty.
Amidst the heartfelt tributes, the focus will continue to American Kestrel, the species themselves. As a species of conservation concern, American Kestrels confront myriad challenges, from habitat loss to environmental changes; in which, the exact reason for the decline in their numbers remains a mystery. Dr. Michele Losee, Founder and Director of IRfC, will present scientific research, conservation initiatives and demonstrate how the community can participate in the safeguarding of American Kestrels and their habitats through their own Citizen Science. The event serves not only as a tribute to Finley, the introduction of Lennox but as a rallying cry for collective action to ensure the survival of these phenomenal falcons.
In addition to meeting Lennox, there will be a special guest joining IRFC’s effort - Devin Jaffe, Founder and Director of Nature’s Educators will be traveling all the way from Florence, CO and will bring two American Kestrels from her flying team. Devin is a Master Falconer and accomplished raptor educator in which her experience has led Nature's Educators to be the largest wildlife education organization in Colorado, and one of the largest in the region.
There will be opportunities to meet three American Kestrels and a female Saker Falcon in person as well as purchasing raptor themed items to support the mission of raptor conservation.
