Jenny Papka

The birds and people of Native Bird Connections offer experiences that go beyond the ordinary. From school programs tailored to the national standards to presentations for seniors, scouts and special interest groups, they strive to immerse the audience in an intimate view of a wild bird’s behavior, life choices and needs. Regardless of age, participants find themselves personally connecting with a living being through empathy and awe, emerging inspired.

Native Bird Connections are privileged to share their educational endeavors with wild birds as their partners. Their birds are victims of permanent physical or psychological damage rendering them unable to survive in the wild. They have asked them to accept captivity within a realm of respect and trust, acknowledging fully their loss of a wild life while challenging them to an active role as ambassadors and teachers.

Jenny Papka has a Bachelor’s degree with honors from UC Davis in Environmental Interpretation. She has been involved with wildlife since 1988, first with Lindsay Museum for 13 years, and currently with Native Bird Connections for 23 years. NBC supports 13 non releasable raptors as educational partners.

Jenny maintains the NBC collection, delivers all of the programs, and consults with like organizations locally and beyond. She is an advisor for the Peregrine Team and the Kestrel Campaign in the Mt Diablo region. Jenny has working experience with most California native wildlife and over 30 species of raptors. She received the William Penn Mott Jr. Environmental Award from the Orinda Association in 2009.

Jenny Papka

Photo by Native Bird Connections