From cautious first introductions to captivating visitors in our displays, discover how Bird Team member Poppy built a special bond with Harris’ Hawk, Phoebe.In September 2025, Bird Team member Poppy was introduced to Phoebe, one of our Harris’ Hawks. When our Head of Animals, Tom asked if she would like to be the person to work most closely with Phoebe, Poppy jumped at the opportunity. Her role would be to build a relationship with Phoebe, prepare her for our “World of Birds of Prey” display during the winter season, and introduce her to visitors during our experience days.
“I was so excited. I’ve always had a massive soft spot for hawks, especially Harris’ Hawks, and I’d never worked with a female Harris’ Hawk before. I couldn’t wait to get started.”
Poppy was delighted to discover that she and Phoebe were the same age.
“There’s always something quite bizarre about working with a bird who has experienced the same number of springs, summers, autumns and winters as you have.”
Earning trust
As with all birds of prey, the first step is building trust. Developing that bond requires patience, consistency and understanding and for Poppy and Phoebe, those early days were far from straightforward.
“Phoebe was very unsure of me. It took her some time to even hop onto my glove to take her dinner.”
With plenty of patience, and more than a few moments spent standing perfectly still, Poppy gradually earned Phoebe’s trust.
“I still remember the day she finally came over and sat on my glove. I couldn’t stop myself from smiling. I knew then that this was going to be a very exciting journey for both of us.”
A star in the making
As their partnership grew, Poppy began taking Phoebe out into the Savannah Arena to continue her training. It was here that Phoebe’s confidence really began to shine.
“She looked absolutely gorgeous beneath the autumn sunshine. Her beautiful Harris’ Hawk feathers were striking in the light, and her big, kind brown eyes glistened as she looked to me for any sign that I was about to call her over to the glove.”
A special bond
The pair quickly developed a strong connection, learning to read one another’s body language and cues. Although Poppy has worked with birds of prey for several years, she says she has never met a hawk quite as vocal as Phoebe.
“The second she hears my keys jingling on my belt as I walk around the corner, she hops to the front of her aviary and starts squeaking excitedly, mixed with her happy Harris’ Hawk grumbles. It’s one of my favourite sounds in the world.”
Today, the progress they have made together is clear for all to see. Phoebe has become a favourite among visitors and staff alike, both for her beautiful flights and her friendly personality. Guests can now see her during our World of Birds of Prey display, which will return as part of our winter timetable, and she regularly meets visitors during experience days.
Reflecting on their partnership, Poppy said:
“Harris’ Hawks are such naturally social birds. Unlike many other birds of prey, they often live and hunt cooperatively in family groups known as casts. They are highly communicative and often rely on those social relationships, which makes the connection I’ve been able to build with Phoebe feel even more meaningful to me.”
A clever hawk
Working with a Harris’ Hawk isn’t just about flight. These intelligent birds also need regular activities to challenge their minds and encourage natural behaviours.
One of Phoebe’s favourite activities involves a problem-solving exercise using cups and hidden treats.
“Harris’ Hawks are incredibly clever birds, so we began some fun exercises using cups. Starting with clear cups, I would place Phoebe’s favourite treats underneath them. The first time I tried it, she wasn’t impressed and didn’t understand what I was asking her to do. However, after I demonstrated by lifting the cups myself, she quickly began to make the connection.
Eventually, I swapped the clear cups for coloured ones that she couldn’t see through, and it was so rewarding to watch her work it out. Within seconds, she knew exactly what to do. Harris’ Hawks clearly possess a strong understanding of object permanence, and it was so exciting to explore another layer of Phoebe’s intelligence.”
Looking into the future
From those early days of cautious introductions to becoming one of our rising stars, Phoebe has come a long way. With Poppy by her side, she continues to grow in confidence, delighting visitors and showcasing the intelligence and beauty of Harris’ Hawks.
We look forward to seeing more of Poppy and Phoebe this winter. Book your next visit to catch them in action during our World of Birds of Prey display, where Phoebe’s stunning flight is sure to leave a lasting impression.
