Two rough-legged hawks introduced to Huntingdon County aviary

HUNTINGDON COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) – Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center is welcoming two new feathered friends to its aviary, with both being great ambassadors for their breed.

Alder and Willow are both rough-legged hawks. Alder is what’s called a “light morph” for its pale feathers, and Willow is a “dark morph,” which is only found around the eastern U.S. The center says each bird they add to the aviary lets them educate the public on a different type of ecosystem, with the hawks filling out the grasslands category.

“They’re most often found in Pennsylvania in the wintertime,” Wildlife Program Director Paige Sutherland said. She went on to say that they are “really excited” to promote the new birds.

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Speaking of winter, when the colder temperatures roll around, Sutherland says that the hawks and other birds will have nothing to worry about. The rough-legged hawks specifically have big bodies and small feet, which help with catching rodents and staying warm.

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