Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Cone.
Hi Daniel, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Birds, especially raptors, have been my passion for as long as I can remember. When I was twelve years old, I visited the Open House event at World Bird Sanctuary and met the founder, Walter Crawford. He told me that when I turned thirteen, I should volunteer. So, I did. I began doing basic husbandry work, site maintenance, and whatever other tasks needed to be done. I didn’t care what I did, I just wanted to be around the birds! I was hired full-time as a site manager, and worked my way up to General Curator and now Assistant Director. My childhood was certainly unique, and I am so fortunate to have grown up following my dreams.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It really has not been a smooth road. Working in the non-profit sector, and especially with wild animals, is never easy. The animals need constant care, and the physical and emotional energy it takes can be exhausting. But one of the largest struggles I had was in 2015 when our founder Walter Crawford passed away. Walter was not only my mentor but also one of my closest friends. And you know, aside from that, working to help navigate a black swan event like a global pandemic hasn’t been easy either.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am the Assistant Director of the World Bird Sanctuary. My job is to manage our collection of over 200 animals, direct our global conservation initiatives, and manage our Bald Eagle Flight Team that flies bald eagles at events all around the country.
I am most proud of the cooperative breeding projects I have established with zoos around the world for endangered species conservation. Species conservation is my mission in life, and I could not be more thankful for the opportunity to do what I love and and make a difference in the world at the same time.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Anyone can support the work we do at World Bird Sanctuary! Whether it’s donating time through our volunteer program or donating money, our supporters are what keep our mission moving forward. You can check out all the opportunities on our website at www.worldbirdsanctuary.org
Contact Info:
- Email: dcone@worldbirdsanctuary.org
- Website: www.worldbirdsanctuary.org
- Instagram: @eaglemandan
