In September of 1991, James D. “Jim” Elliot Jr., who
had been a life-long student of birds, recognized a pressing
need for making the public aware of the importance of
birds of prey and the threats these extraordinary creatures
continually face. He answered this need by establishing
the Charleston Raptor Center, formally incorporated as a
501(c)3 organization. Operations began in a small building
where injured birds could be treated. From this modest
beginning, both the purpose and services of the organization
have expanded exponentially. Today more than 40 dedicated
trained and volunteer staff members care for injured birds
in the Avian Medical Center, a state-of-the-art facility that is
open 12 hours a day every day of the year.
In 2019 approximately 1,000 raptors, wading birds,
shorebirds, and aquatic birds will have been treated there.
Since its beginning, over 7,000 birds have been admitted
for treatment and release. Jose Biascoechea, DMV, DABVP,
is the staff veterinarian for the Center for Birds of Prey. He
founded Exotic Vet Care in 2000 and practices exotic animal
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medicine and surgery. He also provides consulting and
related services for the South Carolina Aquarium and The
Turtle Survival Center.
To understand the scope of the organization initiated by Jim
Elliott 30 years ago, look at its mission statement: To identify
and address vital environmental issues by providing medical
care to injured birds of prey and shorebirds, and through
educational, research, and conservation initiatives. Clearly,
caring for wounded birds was only the beginning. In 1995 the
Center was renamed as the South Carolina Center for Birds of
Prey, a title that reflects an expanded scope of services.
In 2004 the Avian Conservation Center (ACC) was
established as an “umbrella” organization to engage in
educational, medical, scientific, and conservation activities.
Today the Center includes the Center for Birds of Prey, the
South Carolina Oiled Bird Response Facility, and the Avian
Medical Clinic. Activities include medical treatment and
rehabilitation, education, research, and specialized response
to birds injured in oil spills.
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