World Bird Sanctuary was founded in 1977 by Walter C. Crawford Jr. to provide the St. Louis area with a hospital for sick or injured raptors. As the Sanctuary grew, so did our mission. Now located on 305 acres of Missouri hardwood forest in partnership with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, World Bird Sanctuary is home to over 200 animals representing over 60 species from all around the world. What began as a small rehabilitation center has grown into an internationally renowned rehabilitation, education, and conservation organization.
I first arrived at WBS as an intern back in 1988, when it was under the original name of Raptor Rehabilitation and Propagation Project, Inc. After corresponding with Walt Crawford by mail and phone, he invited me out to work at the RRPP. I was thrilled. I was provided with a completely immersive experience in raptor conservation. From rehabilitating injured owls to raising Peregrine falcon chicks, traveling for Eagle Days presentations and assisting with research projects. The opportunities were all around thanks to Walt’s ambitions for the organization.
While so much has changed in my now 38 years, the core vision remains the same and we continue to fulfill it every day. We now rehabilitate more raptors than ever before. We continue to work saving endangered species of birds as Walt started doing over 40 years ago. Our education team remains committed to providing people of all ages, but especially schoolchildren, with unique and important programs to inspire greater respect for raptors and the environment.
We’re glad you’ve taken the time to visit our website and appreciate your interest in WBS. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns. Myself, Assistant Director Daniel Cone and the staff of WBS are ready to provide information about all of our mission activities and goals. It’s a very exciting time for WBS as we approach our 50th anniversary in 2027.
I am so proud to be given the privilege of guiding WBS into its 50th year and that we’ve been able to honor Walter’s legacy for all these years after he left us.
We protect and preserve birds and their habitats through conservation, rehabilitation, and education. Our vision is to create a world where birds and humans live in harmony.
Become a hero to our feathered friends and experience the joy of saving lives and protecting our planet. Join the Rescuer’s Giving Club and elevate your impact on the lives of sick and injured raptors!
The World Bird Sanctuary Raptor Hospital rehabilitates over 700 birds of prey each and every year in the St. Louis, Missouri area. 43% of these birds are returned back to the wild – that’s higher than the national average!
We love hearing words of encouragement from our guests! Your visits help us care for our raptors.
