MISSION

The University of Iowa Athletics Department and the Iowa Raptor Project (IRP), a program of the University of Iowa College of Education, are partnering on a joint wildlife conservation education initiative.  This program will integrate Raptor Ambassadors, featuring native Red-tailed Hawks and Peregrine Falcons, into select University of Iowa athletic events.  These appearances will generate messaging tied to the educational and research efforts of the Iowa Raptor Project (IRP).  The IRP will be the caretakers and trainers for all the Raptor Ambassadors involved in the program.  The health, safety, and security of the animals will be the primary focus at all times.

IOWA RAPTOR PROJECT

The IRP’s mission is to connect students and community to the conservation of birds of prey and their natural habitats through research and education.  The IRP achieves its goal to preserve Iowa’s raptor populations and habitats through educational experiences that awaken awareness, nature appreciation, and inspire action, as well as through field research.

ATHLETIC APPEARANCES

The primary goal is to promote the nature conservation efforts led by the Iowa Raptor Project.  The Iowa Athletics Department will coordinate the appearances, branding efforts, promotions, and communication for the program. The Raptor Ambassadors could also be featured in Hawkeye Athletics promotional materials, videos, and online to provide consistent exposure to the importance of conservation. The raptors are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and Iowa state laws.  The raptor images will not be used to promote tickets or revenue generation, but can be used in gameday collateral such as introduction videos.