In Pennsylvania, the ancient tradition of falconry is gaining renewed visibility thanks to the work of master falconer Courtney Douds. Operating out of West Philadelphia, Douds is the founder of Raptor Jawns, an innovative initiative dedicated to bird education and public engagement with birds of prey. With her latest addition—a one-month-old Eurasian eagle owl chick named Medusa—the organization is set to offer even broader experiences for local communities.

Meet Medusa: A New Chapter in Public Bird Education

Medusa, officially known as the medusa owl, represents a significant step for Raptor Jawns. As a Eurasian eagle owl chick, Medusa is being imprinted from an early age to adapt comfortably to human interaction. Douds is hand-raising Medusa, ensuring that the young bird learns to thrive in public settings and eventually participates in outreach programming. Unlike native species, Medusa’s non-native status allows for more frequent public meet and greets and participation in special events across Pennsylvania.

Legal and Ethical Approaches to Birds of Prey

Douds, who balances her falconry expertise with her background as a therapist, is careful to follow all wildlife regulations. While Raptor Jawns cares for rescued native birds of prey, strict legal guidelines often limit their display in public. Medusa’s inclusion offers a solution—her presence allows Raptor Jawns to conduct flight demonstrations and interactive programs without the constraints placed on native birds. This ensures that wildlife welfare remains a central priority with every educational event.

The Art and Evolution of Falconry

Falconry is an ancient practice, dating back thousands of years, where trained birds hunt alongside humans. Douds’ journey began with volunteering in wildlife rehabilitation. Her passion led her to international study and ultimately to a career that integrates falconry training with public education. Through Raptor Jawns, she aims to share not only the technical skill but also the deep respect and ethical responsibility that the practice demands.

Training for Education, Not the Hunt

Unlike hunting birds, education birds like Medusa are trained for gentleness, adaptability, and comfort around people. Douds emphasizes that the training approach is distinct: the goal is to create positive, stress-free interactions between the birds and audiences of all ages. The focus is on building the animal’s confidence through gradual acclimation to public environments—an approach Raptor Jawns applies to all its education ambassadors.

Expanding Access to Wildlife Education Across Pennsylvania

Raptor Jawns’ programming reaches a wide range of local schools, community centers, and even private events such as weddings, making wildlife education more accessible than ever in the region. Through immersive flight demonstrations and hands-on learning opportunities, children and adults alike are introduced to the vital role birds of prey play in Pennsylvania’s ecosystems.

Respecting Birds and Inspiring Communities

Douds stresses a transactional and respectful philosophy in all her interactions with raptors. Raptor Jawns’ mission is to provide meaningful encounters that foster understanding, rather than seeing animals as pets. Her commitment is to the welfare of each bird, ensuring their needs guide every program and event.

Looking Forward: Aspirations for Raptor Jawns

As Raptor Jawns continues to grow, Douds is planning advanced demonstrations and larger public events, with Medusa set to become a central figure in future programming. Through ongoing innovation and ethical stewardship, Douds and her team are building a foundation for falconry and bird education that resonates throughout Pennsylvania’s diverse communities, inspiring the next generation of naturalists and sparking a deeper appreciation for the state’s remarkable raptors.