A fly by of the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
Lee Fournier speaks to a crowd at the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition about the Eurasian Eagle Owl on Feb. 16.
The Great Horned Owl patrolled the Charleston skies before the slave ships slipped into the harbor. Now, the raptor also patrols Marion Square during the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE). SEWE has provided a place for conservationists and nature enthusiasts since 1983.
From 2/13 to 2/17, vendors and organizations like The Birds of Prey Center, Ducks Unlimited, and Maui Jim. The event also housed a culinary tent and more exhibits like dog competitions at Brittlebank Park. The Birds of Prey Center hosted a Wando Junior as a volunteer, Samantha Castiller. Castiller has volunteered with her mom at the center for more than ten years.
“My mom and I have volunteered at the Center for Birds of Prey on the weekends for years now. It is such an enlightening experience to work the [Birds of Prey] tent at SEWE. It’s our responsibility to share our knowledge about these birds, which we sometimes take for granted because they are so important to the ecosystem.” Castiller said.
Castiller helped her mom with the flight demonstrations at Marion Square. The pair released a Harris Hawk to fly down into the crowded square.
