Rocky Mountain Raptor Program (RMRP)

Background Statement

Since 1979—when an injured hawk was brought to the Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital—we have been rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured birds of prey. Over the decades, more than 7,000 raptors have come through our doors. We now admit 300+ sick, injured, or orphaned raptors each year, and release 75% of treatable patients, giving them A Second Chance at Freedom.

Every day, injured and orphaned raptors arrive at our rehabilitation hospital in urgent need of expert, life-saving care. With your support, we provide the highest standards of veterinary-guided medicine, tailored treatment for each species and injury, and compassionate handling that gives every bird the best chance for survival and release.

Alongside rescue and rehabilitation, we deliver over 260 days of life-changing environmental education programs annually, inspiring tens of thousands of people of all ages to protect raptors, other wildlife, and the wild places we share.

Looking ahead, we are planning an exciting new wildlife center—featuring a state-of-the-art raptor hospital, visitor center, classrooms, and interpretive displays. Landscaped outdoor exhibits will highlight Colorado’s diverse ecosystems and provide a permanent home for our non-releasable Education Ambassadors.

Every raptor who comes through our doors—whether an eagle tangled in fishing line, a hawk poisoned by rodenticide, or an owl orphaned by wildfire—reminds us of this truth: your giving saves lives.

As costs rise and new wildlife diseases emerge, your partnership ensures we can continue to meet these growing challenges head-on.

By giving today, you are not only meeting our urgent operational needs—you are also investing in a future where wildlife and people thrive together.