AWC plans sweet treats for Alabama’s birds

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Attendees can enjoy chocolate treats and savory snacks prepared by some of Birmingham’s best caterers and restaurants at the Alabama Wildlife Center’s “Wild About Chocolate” fundraiser at The Harbert Center, downtown on Feb. 6 from 7-10 p.m.

Wild About Chocolate, in its 12th year, will also feature complimentary beer, wine and other beverages; live music; and silent and live auctions.

The event benefits AWC, Alabama’s largest wildlife rehabilitation and educational center, according to Doug Adair, the Center’s executive director. 

“Our mission depends on the success of fundraisers like this,” Adair said. “Last year, we took care of almost 2,000 patients from over 100 species, and we reached tens of thousands of Alabamians, both young and old, with our educational programming throughout the state.”

The auctions at Wild About Chocolate will include such items as South African safaris, entertainment packages, original artwork, jewelry and an opportunity to release a rehabilitated wild bird, according to Adair. 

In fact, a rehabilitated red-tailed hawk will make a special appearance at the fundraiser as the latest in a series of ambassadors for the AWC’s growing educational programs, according to Adair.

The hawk was brought to the AWC a year ago after being hit by a car and losing the vision in her right eye. 

“She is unable to survive or hunt effectively in the wild, so she took on a new role as a glove-trained raptor… so we can take her out to schools and civic groups and business organizations.”

This allows these audiences “to get up close and personal with a red-tailed hawk in a way that normally you would not be able to experience,” Adair said.

Dress is cocktail attire. Complimentary parking will be available in the deck across the street. Admission is $75 in advance and $100 at the door.

For information or to order tickets, call 663-7930 ext. 8 or go to awrc.org.