Carolina Raptor Center

Carolina Raptor Center has modified its existing lease agreement with Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation, marking a strategic shift in long-term planning while reaffirming its partnership in advancing nature-based education and conservation in the region.

CRC is proud to have partnered with Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation in the fundraising and construction of Quest Nature Center, a community asset that opened in 2021. The collaboration has provided thousands of visitors with opportunities to connect with nature and learn about environmental stewardship.

As part of the original vision for the Quest campus, a second phase included development of a new Raptor Trail and facilities on approximately 20 acres of land behind Quest Nature Center. However, unforeseen challenges significantly impacted the project’s timeline and feasibility, including the COVID-19 pandemic, escalating construction costs, and broader industry changes.

“Like many organizations, we have had to thoughtfully reassess our priorities in response to changing circumstances,” said Gabor Zsuppan, Executive Director of CRC. “We remain deeply committed to our mission and welcome the opportunity to serve raptors and our community even better through strategic investments and enhancements at this beautiful campus in Latta Nature Preserve that we’ve called home for forty-plus years.”

CRC is now focused on the next phase of development at its existing site at 6000 Sample Road, with improvements to strengthen animal care operations and enhance the visitor experience. Planned upgrades include redesigned raptor enclosures, expanded accessibility features, and new visitor amenities to enrich educational engagement and guest satisfaction.

CRC will continue to maintain a strong partnership with Quest Nature Center through educational programming, outreach initiatives, and collaborative efforts that support connecting the community with nature.

The lease modification positions CRC and Quest Nature Center to maximize impact while maintaining a longstanding cooperative relationship. CRC remains dedicated to environmental education, conservation, and the rehabilitation of birds of prey.

The countdown is on! Birdies for Birdies is almost here, and Family Night kicks things off THIS FRIDAY! 🦅💚

Grab your crew and join us for an evening of mini golf along the Raptor Trail, lawn games, a themed photo opportunity, and delicious eats from the Burgers & Soul Food Truck. It's the perfect way to kick off a fun-filled weekend while supporting Carolina Raptor Center!

Then keep the fun going on Saturday for Adults Night, featuring mini golf, beer & wine, live music, a themed photo opportunity, and the International Truck of Tacos.

🎟️ Tee times are limited and are selling fast!

Don't wait until your favorite time slot is gone! Reserve your tee time today and get ready for a one-of-a-kind mini golf experience.

📅 Family Night: Friday, June 5 / 5PM-8PM

📅 Adults Night: Saturday, June 6 / 5PM-8PM

Tag your mini golf team below and secure your spot before we sell out! ⛳🦉

https://carolinaraptorcenter.org/birdies-for-birdies/

Join Our Team: Manager of Business Operations

Love mission-driven work and numbers that make an impact? Carolina Raptor Center is looking for a Manager of Business Operations to help power our work in raptor rehabilitation, education, and conservation. 🦅

In this role, you’ll lead financial management, optimize systems (including QuickBooks Online and Salesforce), and oversee payroll, benefits, and compliance, all while supporting a growing nonprofit dedicated to protecting birds of prey and inspiring our community.

If you’re a detail-oriented finance professional who wants to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you!

👉 Apply online today and help us create a world where raptors and people thrive.

https://carolinaraptorcenter.org/job/manager-of-business-operations/

FAMILY NIGHT GIVEAWAY! Purchase your tickets for Birdies for Birdies Family Night by TONIGHT, June 1, at 11:59 PM to be automatically entered into our exclusive raffle. One lucky family will take home a Carolina Raptor Center gift bag packed with fun, bird-themed goodies everyone will enjoy. 🦅💚

Join us this Friday, June 5 for Family Night from 5PM-8PM! Bring the whole flock for an evening of mini golf, lawn games, photo opportunities and a food truck.

CRC members receive $5 off each ticket! 🎟️

Book your tee time at: https://carolinaraptorcenter2.ticketing.veevartapp.com/tickets/view/list/birdies-for-birdies-2026-family-night

Pick your night and join us on the Raptor Trail for Birdies for Birdies! ⛳️

Whether you’re bringing your whole flock or it’s a Saturday date night, this unique after hours mini golf experience is sure to be a hole-in-one! Enjoy 9 holes of mini golf, meet our incredible Avian Ambassadors, and support raptor conservation and education along the way.

Family Night: Friday, June 5th from 5PM-8PM

Adults Night: Saturday, June 6th from 5PM-8PM

Pick your tee time at the link below!

https://carolinaraptorcenter.org/birdies-for-birdies/

Which night are you picking? 🏌️‍♂️💚

Celebrate Black Birders Week (May 24-30) with CRC Board Member, Matthew Morgan. Join Matthew for a special “Birding is for Everyone” walk on Saturday, May 30 at 9AM!

Starting at Carolina Raptor Center, and heading toward Gar Creek, this FREE community bird walk is all about accessibility, connection, and celebrating the joy of birding together. Whether you’re a lifelong birder, or just getting started, everyone is welcome! 🐤💚

This Memorial Day, we remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. 🇺🇸🦅

Stars, stripes, and soaring eagles! 🦅🇺🇸Celebrate America 250 at Eagle Extravaganza at Carolina Raptor Center!

Join us for a red, white, and WILD day filled with eagle feedings, Bird Shows, Keeper Chats, games, and family fun all along the Raptor Trail. ✨

Kick off the day with Breakfast with the Birds, then spend the afternoon getting up close with America’s favorite bird!

🎟️ All programs and activities are included with admission to the Raptor Trail.

FREE admission for active duty military members and veterans.

🗓️ July 3
📍 Carolina Raptor Center
🕐 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Get your tickets at the link below!

https://carolinaraptorcenter2.ticketing.veevartapp.com/tickets/view/list/eagle-extravaganza