Spirit
Spirit, a Bald Eagle, arrived at the Auburn University Raptor Center in August 1998 and has since become one of our most iconic ambassadors. She was originally discovered as a fledgling in Florida in 1996 with injuries to her beak and wing. Although her wing healed successfully, her beak injury resulted in permanent damage, making her unable to hunt or survive independently in the wild. Because of this, Spirit found a lifelong home with us, where she now helps inspire and educate visitors of all ages.
Spirit holds a special place in Auburn history. She was the first Bald Eagle ever to fly before a game at Jordan–Hare Stadium, making her inaugural pregame flight on September 28, 2002. Since that day, she has completed numerous pregame flights and has become known nationwide for her impressive aerial displays. True to her bold personality, Spirit is also famously vocal, and audiences often hear her calling long before they see her take the stage.
Through her presence in programs and her unforgettable stadium flights, Spirit helps us share the conservation story of America’s national symbol and fosters a deeper appreciation for the raptors that inspire us every day.
