What is RROKI?

Raptor Rehabilitation of Kentucky, Inc. was formed to:

    Rehabilitate injured raptors

    Raise orphaned raptors

    Increase public awareness about the importance of               
          raptors

Our work was started in the 1980's by a group of dedicated volunteers.  RROKI became incorporated as a nonprofit organization in 1990.  We are an all volunteer group dedicated to the rehabilitation of sick, injured and orphaned birds of prey.  We rely solely on the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of our supporters.

What we do

Injured and orphaned raptors are brought to us by Fish and Wildlife Officers and other concerned individuals.  They are examined by a veterinarian and a course of treatment is determined.  Sometimes x-rays, surgery, and other medical treatment is required.  The patient then begins its rest and rehabilitation indoors in a quiet place.  As it progresses, it is moved outside to a flight cage for more exercise and a more normal habitat.  More than half of the raptors admitted each year are able to be returned to the wild.

Bird that are to be released are usually kept in caged areas away from people.  This way they are not disturbed.  There is a special enclosure where they can hunt live mice.  This is especially important to young birds in perfecting their hunting skills.

The first step when an injured or orphaned bird comes into RROKI is a complete physical examination including eye and ear examinations.  Blood is drawn and lab work is performed to check for infection, anemia, and other diseases.  Body X-rays are taken to identify lead or fractures. 

Based on the initial examination, the birds are taken through a treatment plan that can range from daily medication or wound management to surgery or physical therapy.  This is all done by our dedicated RROKI volunteers who are trained to help in the procedures.  If treatment appears effective, the regimen will continue until the bird is a prospect for release.  RROKI provides flight cages for rehabilitated birds to improve their flight and maneuverability before being released.  In 2003, RROKI took in over 300 birds.  Many of these birds recovered to the point of being released. 

Education Programs

Education is a top priority at RROKI.  Birds kept for use in education programs are ones deemed unlikely to survive in the wild. 

Volunteers take birds to schools, Scout meetings, park programs and special exhibits.

Our various education programs reach more and more people each year.  From contact with these programs, people gain knowledge and a greater understanding, appreciation, and concern for raptors and other wildlife.  This concern is then reflected in an increased desire to protect the Earth's fragile environment.