International Centre for Birds of Prey facts for kids

The International Centre for Birds of Prey (ICBP) is a special place in the United Kingdom. It used to be called the National Birds of Prey Centre. This center is home to a huge collection of birds of prey. These are birds that hunt for their food, like owls, eagles, and hawks. The ICBP has more than 60 different kinds of these amazing birds!
The center works hard to protect birds of prey. They do this by teaching people about them, helping them to have babies in a safe place (called captive breeding), doing scientific studies (research), and helping sick or injured birds get better (rehabilitation). You can find the center in Gloucestershire, near the towns of Boulsdon and Newent. The person in charge, the Director, is Jemima Parry-Jones.
History of the Centre
The ICBP started a long time ago as the Falconry Centre. It was created by Phillip Glasier. This center was like a special zoo, but it only had birds of prey. It included birds like falcons, hawks, eagles, and owls.
Why the Centre Was Started
The main goal of the center was to teach people about birds of prey. They wanted everyone to understand how important these birds are in the world. The center also aimed to teach people about falconry. Falconry is the ancient sport of hunting with trained birds of prey.
Opening and Current Status
The center first opened its doors to visitors on May 25, 1967. It has been a place for learning and conservation for many years. As of 2023, the International Centre for Birds of Prey is no longer open to the public.