Park Ranger Mardean Roach shows an American Kestrel to third grade students at Zeigler-Royalton Grade School. - FWS photo

Park Ranger Jennifer Randolph displays an Eastern Screech Owl, while Park Ranger John Giles answers questions from third grade students at Zeigler-Royalton Grade School. - FWS photo

Park Rangers John Giles, Jennifer Randolph and Mardean Roach, Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, made a special appearance on February 28, to present a live bird program to local third grade students. 

Forty children, three teachers and the principal of Zeigler-Royalton grade school enjoyed learning about the Great Horned Owl, Eastern Screech Owl and American Kestrel. 

The students were able to get a up close, personal look at the birds.  Refuge Park Rangers also displayed several different bird eggs, feathers, and talons during the presentation. 

All three birds used for this presentation were borrowed from Beverly Shofstall, who owns and operates Free Again Wildlife Rehabilitation in Carterville.