North Sky Raptor Sanctuary aims to bring immersive experiential wildlife education to YOUR backyard! This two acre property will include a 4500 sq. ft. bird of prey hospital and public raptor center (the first of its kind in Northern Michigan), and will feature an outdoor interpretive trail showcasing ten species of non-releasable ambassador raptors, as well as a 5000 sq. ft. reconditioning flight enclosure to serve as a recovery space for raptor patients prior to their healthy release back to the wild. This innovative campus will be rooted in the heart of Grand Traverse County’s newest public park, Camp Greilick, located in East Bay Township.

The Why: The nearest zoo or wildlife center offering educational programming featuring native species is nearly 2 hours away, making these experiences largely inaccessible for most Northern Michigan school districts and families. At the same time, wildlife rehabilitation facilities in the region continue to find themselves resource-stretched and over-capacity nearly year round (North Sky Raptor Sanctuary treated patients from 32 counties across the state in 2025 alone). This challenge grows each year as more residents are drawn to the area by our region’s natural beauty.

The Solution: Our state-of-the-art facility is designed to serve as a centralized resource for bird of prey rehabilitation, wildlife education, and scientific research with the capacity to serve all of Northern Michigan - and beyond! Schools and families from across the region will have the opportunity to experience immersive, high-quality educational programming, while current (and prospective) rehabilitators, veterinarians, and wildlife biologists will gain access to the resources, hands-on training, and collaboration they need to thrive.

The Cost: The total cost for site improvements, infrastructure, and equipment has been quoted at $4.2 million, with an additional $2.2 million being sought for exhibits and educational installations, program development, launch efforts, and to establish a sustainability endowment that will ensure these efforts leave a lasting legacy for generations to come!

We extend our sincere appreciation to the many supporters who have empowered us to pursue this incredible opportunity.