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Apopka Today
By the People, for the People
Avian Reconditioning Center Helps Injured Birds of Prey in Apopka
The nonprofit facility rehabilitates and releases raptors, while also educating the public about these important indicator species.
Apr. 2, 2026 at 1:36pm
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The Avian Reconditioning Center (ARC) in Apopka, Florida is a nonprofit organization that rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured and orphaned birds of prey. These raptors, including hawks, owls, falcons, and eagles, are important indicator species that can reveal environmental issues. ARC provides medical care, rehabilitation, and education to help these powerful birds return to the wild or serve as ambassadors for their species.
Why it matters
Birds of prey sit atop the food chain, so when something is wrong in the environment, raptors are often the first to show it. ARC's work is crucial for understanding and addressing threats to these indicator species, which can have ripple effects throughout the ecosystem. By rehabilitating injured raptors and educating the public, ARC plays a vital role in protecting Florida's wildlife.
The details
ARC takes in injured and orphaned birds of prey, including hawks, owls, falcons, and eagles. The rehabilitation process can involve treating wing injuries, fractures, and issues caused by poisoning that moves up the food chain. Some raptors recover fully and are released back into the wild, while others with permanent injuries become educational ambassadors to help people understand these powerful birds up close.
- ARC has been operating as a nonprofit raptor rehabilitation and education facility in Central Florida.
- The center sees an influx of injured and orphaned birds of prey throughout the year.
The players
Avian Reconditioning Center (ARC)
A nonprofit organization in Apopka, Florida that rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured and orphaned birds of prey, while also educating the public about these important indicator species.
Ella
An owl residing at ARC who serves as an educational ambassador for the center.
What they’re saying
“If you've ever done wildlife photography, you know the routine: wake up early, hike out, sit perfectly still, slowly become one with the mud… and then the animal ghosts you anyway.”
— Joey Manna, Writer
What’s next
ARC is always in need of volunteers to help with the daily care and rehabilitation of the birds. Visitors can also support the center by attending educational programs and events.
The takeaway
The Avian Reconditioning Center in Apopka plays a vital role in protecting Florida's birds of prey, which serve as important indicator species for the health of the local environment. By rescuing, rehabilitating, and educating the public about these powerful raptors, ARC is working to ensure their survival and the overall well-being of the state's ecosystems.
