About Us
The African Raptor Centre (ARC) was founded to protect and preserve Africa’s magnificent birds of prey through rescue, rehabilitation, research, breeding, and education. What began as a small rescue initiative has evolved into one of South Africa’s leading centres for raptor conservation — combining science, ethics, and education to safeguard threatened species for future generations.
Protecting Africa’s Apex Predators
Nestled in the heart of South Africa, the African Raptor Centre (ARC) stands as a sanctuary dedicated to the protection, preservation, and understanding of Africa’s most awe-inspiring hunters — the birds of prey. What began as a humble rescue effort for injured and displaced raptors has grown into one of the continent’s leading centres for conservation, education, and rehabilitation.
At ARC, every bird has a story — from eagles and hawks to owls and vultures — each one a symbol of the delicate balance that defines our natural world. Many arrive broken or orphaned, victims of human impact or environmental change. Through skilled rehabilitation and compassionate care, these raptors are given a second chance: to soar once again or to live out their days as ambassadors of their kind, inspiring the next generation to care for the wild.
Our work extends far beyond rescue and rehabilitation. ARC is a centre of research and education, collaborating with scientists, students, and communities to study raptor ecology, promote ethical wildlife practices, and advocate for habitat preservation. Our educational programs bring people face to face with these magnificent creatures, transforming fear into fascination and curiosity into conservation action.
Through responsible breeding programs, ARC also plays a vital role in strengthening vulnerable populations — ensuring that species on the brink of decline are not lost to history. Each bird bred, each chick raised, is part of a larger vision: to restore balance and safeguard Africa’s skies for generations yet to come.
But perhaps the true soul of the African Raptor Centre lies in its people — a team of passionate conservationists, rehabilitators, educators, and volunteers united by one mission: to protect Africa’s raptors and inspire others to do the same.
Every release back into the wild marks a victory for nature. Every child who leaves with a spark of wonder becomes part of our legacy.
At the African Raptor Centre, we believe that conservation begins with connection. When people meet these extraordinary birds — see the power in their wings, the wisdom in their eyes — they begin to understand why they must be protected.
Together, we can keep Africa’s skies alive with the flight of eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls.
Together, we soar.
