Northern Illinois Raptor Rehab & Education

06/20/2026

06/19/2026

**The Queen of the Nest? Luna Is Looking More Majestic Every Day. 🦅👑**

There comes a point when you look at an eaglet and realize they're not such little fluffballs anymore. Luna has reached that stage, and it's amazing to watch.

Perched high above Big Bear, she sits so calmly, taking in everything around her. There's a quiet confidence in the way she carries herself, and that focused stare makes it seem like she's always paying attention to the world beyond the nest.

Her juvenile feathers are filling in beautifully, and with each passing day she's looking more like the powerful eagle she'll soon become. It's incredible to think that not long ago she was a tiny chick tucked safely beside Sandy. Now she's growing stronger, more independent, and preparing for the adventures that lie ahead.

The backdrop of Big Bear Lake makes this moment even more special. Beyond the nest is a vast world waiting to be explored, and before long those growing wings will carry Luna far beyond the place she's always called home.

Moments like this remind us just how quickly these eaglets grow. Every day brings new milestones, and it's been a privilege to watch Luna's journey unfold.

Do you think Luna has the calm confidence of Jackie, the determined look of Shadow, or a little bit of both? 🦅💙

06/19/2026

Mom, are you up there???? I've seen owls rotate their necks 270 degrees horizontally, but I've never seen one look up so far that their face appears to be upside down. This recently fledged baby barred owl had its back to me and was looking up to the parent that just flew in and landed above it.

06/19/2026

06/19/2026

06/19/2026

06/19/2026

06/19/2026

06/19/2026

Little owl in a big new world. As sunset neared, this baby screech owl was just beginning to stir for the evening and I was ready to head home to bed.

Did you know that screech owls often thrive in suburban settings? A dear friend spotted this one hanging out in their front yard on a busy residential street.

This is a good time to remind you of the dangers rodenticides pose to children, pets and wildlife like this owl. When a mouse eats poison, it doesn’t die immediately. It becomes sickly and easy pickings for the owl, nature’s rodent controller. Then the owl eats the poisoned mouse, or feeds it to its babies, poisoning everyone. The most recommended and safest ways to control rodents is either using snap traps or the bucket method, but I will also be posting a list of poisons in the comments that have been shown not to travel up the food chain.