Quogue Wildlife Refuge Welcomes Two Rescued Red-Tailed Hawks

The Quogue Wildlife Refuge's Outdoor Wildlife Complex has welcomed two new permanent residents — a pair of red-tailed hawks recovered from separate incidents on the East End this spring.

The first, a juvenile female found near Montauk Highway with a wing injury that prevents flight, arrived in March. The second, an adult male discovered in Westhampton Beach after a vehicle collision, joined the refuge in April.

Both hawks have been assessed by wildlife veterinarians and determined unable to survive in the wild. They join the refuge's existing collection of permanently injured raptors, including great horned owls, barred owls, and a peregrine falcon.

"These birds become incredible ambassadors for wildlife education," said the refuge director. "Thousands of visitors each year, especially children, get their first close encounter with a raptor right here."

The Outdoor Wildlife Complex is free and open daily from sunrise to sunset. The refuge's 305 acres also include seven miles of hiking trails, the Fairy Dell Boardwalk over Quantuck Creek, and a greenhouse home to giant tortoises.