Winter 2024

Chris Patton with DD. Patton has been a volunteer with the SPCA for nearly 20 years anH has Feen one of ((’s HeHMcateH hanHlers sMnce the hawO was first rescueH R ed-tailed hawks ( Buteo jamaicensis ) are commonly seen around Monterey Coun- ty. Perched on light poles, fence posts and other elevated spots, these raptors seek prey while ceaselessly scanning the ground with their excellent vision. DD, however, has a much easier meal plan. As the resident hawk and ambassador of SPCA Monterey County’s Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation Center, she’s well cared-for by her human handlers. A retired nurse, Chris Patton has been a SPCA volunteer for nearly two decades. “DD was rescued 17 years ago. We think she’d been hit by a car and has an injured left wing that makes flying impossible,” she says. 4atton and other handlers take DD to area schools, libraries and events to allow children and adults the rare opportunity to see this magnificent and majestic creature up close—but not too close. “She’s not a pet, but she has become calmer with age,” 4atton e\plains. “7he’s actually great around kids.” Hawks are apex predators, and their only real danger comes from humans, as DD learned at the tender age of 2. At 19, she’s near the end of her life expectancy, but she can rest assured that her life has been well spent, teaching humans about her species. For more information, visit www.spcamc.org . SPCA Outreach With DD the Red-Tailed Hawk B Y M I CHA E L CHAT F I E LD SHORT CUTS GIVING BACK 86 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 2 4 Photo: David J. Gubernick/ www.rainbowspirit.com