Meet The Team
GT – Brown Falcon
Scientific Name: Falco berigora
GT is a male who was born in November 2005.
GT will often fill in for Ford during displays but he also takes up the role for glove-work, giving the brave the opportunity to ‘hold’ a bird on the glove.
GT was illegally transported into the state from South Australia. Hitching a ride in GT was a disease. A disease that if untreated can be fatal to its host and other animals the parasite was to come in contact with.
The disease was Filarioid Nematodes – in simple terms internal worms. This particular genus feds on tissue around the joints. The tarsus is one area the symptoms are very obvious.
With simple treatment the Nematodes died and were absorbed back into the body.
This is a good example of how important it is to quarantine especially if you do not know the history of the animal you are treating.
Bee – Whistling Kite
Species Name: Haliaster sphenurus
Bee is a male, born in October 2004.
Nervous bird by nature but in front of a crowd Bee has no fear of flying up close during the flying displays.
This species is known for catching on the wing with its talons and tranfering the food into the break while remaining in the air. Other natural behavours include raking, stealing and fishing.
Pandora – Black Kite
Species Name:Milvus migrans
Pandora is a female Black Kite born in August 2004.
Dont get confused by the name because they are not a black bird. Black kites are a mixture of light and dark brown certainly not a black bird are the name suggests.
During flying displays Pandora shows a number of natural behavours including circling and souring, catching on the wing, raking stealing and fishing.
Another natural behavour is fire stick farming demonstrated by picking up sticks and moving them to other locations.
Micro – Wedge-tailed Eagle
Our lovable wedgie that has fascinated even the Kindy Kids. Blind in his right eye, Micro has a very gentle personality that allows everyone to get up close and personal.
Auzzie
Wedge-tailed Eagle
Scientific Name: Aquila audax
Auzzie is famous as the mascot for the West Coast Eagles, and flies around Optus Stadium for each of the West Coast Eagles’ home games.
Born in Alice Springs in October 2006. Auzzie had been illegally taken from her nest and kept as a pet. The authorities intervened and passed her onto wildlife carers whom in turn contacted Yvonne Sitko in Perth, Western Australia.
The Department of Biodiversity’s, Conservation and Attractions issued a licence for Auzzie to travel to Perth and remain under the care of the Western Australian Birds of Prey Centre.
Since 2006, Auzzie has become a well known ambassador for her species. Not only providing awareness for her species but also education to the masses. At every home game for the West Coast Eagles, Auzzie flies 15 minutes before bounce down, entertaining the member and inspiring the players. During quarter time and half time Auzzie can often be found in the VIP or corporate boxes once again, spreading the conservational message.