A special program on Birds of Prey including live birds will be held on at 1 p.m. Thursday, April 26, at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Michael Skinner, Executive Director of the Balsam Mountain Trust, will share an up-close glimpse of some of the planet’s most recognized and revered wild animals such as the tiny eastern screech owl and northern bald eagle.

“This is an opportunity for park visitors to see and learn about these beautiful birds first hand,” said Park Ranger Lynda Doucette.

Balsam Mountain Trust is a non-profit based at Balsam Mountain Preserve in Jackson County where orphaned or injured birds of prey are taken in, cared for, and then utilized as educational ambassadors.

828.497.1904 or www.nps.gov/grsm.