Updated March 13, 2025
Meet Juniper, MetroParks’ newest Animal Ambassador
The results are in! After tallying the public’s nearly 300 votes, MetroParks’ newest Animal Ambassador’s name is Juniper. Named for a native tree, also commonly known as eastern red cedar or eastern juniper, Juniper is a screech owl that was rescued by Animal Care Alliance in Richmond, Indiana. Because she had incurable injuries to her left eye – which eventually needed to be removed – she could not be returned to the wild.
Juniper is fully flighted and is adapting to her new enclosure in Germantown MetroPark’s new flight cages, which are adjacent to the Twin Valley Trail Welcome Center. She is a second-year bird, which means she hatched just last year.
Under the care of MetroParks’ staff and volunteers, Juniper is acclimating to her new surroundings and to being around people. Juniper did a great job when she visited Good Day Dayton with MetroParks staff to talk about the MetroParks Birding Challenge. You can also expect to see her out and about this season at various MetroParks events, during which she and her handlers will teach the public about native wildlife and the importance of creating healthy habitats.
Want to meet Juniper? Save the date for:
- Passport to MetroParks at RiverScape MetroPark on May 30, from 6 to 9 p.m.
- Small Farm & Food Fest at Carriage Hill MetroPark on Aug. 10, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (festival hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.)*
Be sure not to miss any of MetroParks programs and events this warm weather season by signing up for its MetroParks Monthly email.
Please note: The Animal Ambassador’s schedules may change depending on the health and well-being of the animals, which remains a priority for Five Rivers MetroParks.
