SORCO raptor rescue disappointed to cancel their annual open house for the third year

Photo: SORCO

It will be another year before the public gets to come by the SORCO raptor rehabilitation centre in Oliver.

The annual open house is the only time the facilities are open to the public. The major fundraiser is key to funding their rescue work for injured birds of prey.

"We had to make a decision and unfortunately, the decision was to cancel it again this year," manager Dale Belvedere shared. "It's very disappointing for all of us. I mean, the volunteers love having the people down."

The open house for 2022 had been scheduled for Sunday, May 1. During the event, the organization typically celebrate the birthday of their longest resident and unofficial mascot Houdini the great horned owl.

Staff also take the chance to show what they do in their work caring for the raptors.

"It's a shame, but just something that is just too risky at this point for us."

Belvedere added that while restrictions are not capped on outdoor gatherings at this time, meaning they could welcome in their usual numbers of around 2500 visitors for the event, policing and monitoring everything indoors is just too much of an uncertain area at this time.

"I mean, that could all change. But this takes us months to prepare. So we just had to make the decision."

The announcement was posted on Facebook on Tuesday and SORCO is grateful for everyone's support and understanding at this time.

"We do appreciate their support and their understanding. I mean, they've been very understanding for three years now that we just cannot put on this open house."

To continue to help support SORCO's operations, people are encourage to continue to donate online and learn more about the birds in SORCO's care online here.