Astoria, OR — Wildlife Center of the North Coast (WCNC) is delighted to announce the arrival of its newest ambassador bird, Xena, who has officially joined the center’s educational team.

Xena, an American Kestrel, has officially “joined the flock” as an ambassador for her wild counterparts. She will help inspire compassion for wildlife and share the importance of conservation with the community. For now, Xena is still getting comfortable in her new home, so she’ll be spending time behind the scenes while she settles in and our staff gets to know her better.

“Welcoming a new ambassador bird is always such a special moment for us,” said Kari Henningsgaard, Executive Director of WCNC. “Every bird has their own personality, and it takes time for them to settle in and feel at home. We’re excited for the community to meet Xena once she’s comfortable and ready.”

WCNC’s ambassador birds are non-releasable due to permanent injuries or other circumstances that prevent them from surviving in the wild. Instead, they serve an important educational role, offering the public a chance to connect with wildlife up close and learn about the challenges these species face. Xena is currently settling into her new routine, and while she may occasionally be seen on tours, we’re giving her the time and space she needs to feel fully at home. We invite the community to follow along on our social media channels for updates as she grows into her role as an ambassador.

The Wildlife Center of the North Coast is a nonprofit wildlife rehabilitation and conservation organization dedicated to promoting compassion for nature through education and rehabilitation of injured, orphaned, and sick wildlife. For updates on Xena and other ambassador animals, follow WCNC on social media or visit www.coastwildlife.org.