LAS VEGAS, NV (October 1, 2007) On September 26, 2007 two Red-Tailed Hawks were released off of the Grand Canyon Skywalk after months of rehabilitation by Liberty Wildlife from Scottsdale, AZ.

Midday a crowd of visitors standing on the Grand Canyon Skywalk watched as the Liberty Wildlife staff unboxed the two large birds, gave some information about the species and explained the release procedure. The birds were then raised over the glass side rail of the Skywalk and released.

“One flew along the rim riding the air waves as it drifted down the canyon feeling the wind through its wings to a ledge along the canyon wall,” said Megan Mosby, Executive Director of Liberty Wildlife. “The second bird flew around the back of the facility giving a thrilling aerial display for all of the visitors standing almost eye to eye with the new resident of the canyon,” she continued.

The fledgling birds were brought to the Liberty Wildlife facility as orphan nestlings in the early summer of 2007. After spending time with foster Red-Tailed Hawk parents, building strength in a flight cage and learning how to hunt prey, the birds were prepared for release back into the wild. The Skywalk was chosen as the release site because the species is indigenous to the area and the surrounding landscape provides all of the resources necessary for the birds to thrive.

Liberty Wildlife is located in Scottsdale, Arizona. The organization focuses on the rehabilitation, education, and conservation of native wildlife, which includes all species of animals originating in or migrating through Arizona. Examples of some species the organization works with are owls, hawks, falcons, eagles, mockingbirds, Cactus Wrens (Arizona State Bird), Gila Woodpeckers, Anna’s Hummingbirds, and even Great Blue Herons. Mammals worked with include coyotes, foxes, rabbits, bobcats, mountain lions and Javelinas. Reptiles and amphibians, while not found very often, are also treated at the facility. For more information call (480) 998-5550 or visit www.libertywildlife.com.

About Grand Canyon West: Grand Canyon Resort Corporation, which is wholly owned and operated by the Hualapai Nation, manages Grand Canyon West, Hualapai River Runners (whitewater rafting), and the Hualapai Lodge. Grand Canyon West is a collection of viewpoints and attractions spread over 9000 acres of the Grand Canyon’s West Rim in Northwest Arizona, just 120 miles east of Las Vegas, Nevada. Grand Canyon West is the only place in the Canyon where visitors can access the Colorado River via helicopter and is home to the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass walkway 4000 ft above the canyon floor. The site attractions are: Guano Point, with panoramic canyon views, includes the Hualapai Market, Hualapai Buffet, and the historic Highpoint Hike; Eagle Point hosts the Grand Canyon Skywalk, Native American dance performances, and the Indian Village with authentic recreations of multiple tribes dwellings; and The Hualapai Ranch, which is a western town with cowboy performances, horseback riding, wagon rides, and a Cowboy Cookout. All inclusive tours are available from Las Vegas, Phoenix and Sedona by airplane, helicopter, coach, SUV, and Hummer. Grand Canyon West is open daily and overnight cabins are available. Visitors can view a complete list of activities, book reservations, and get directions on the web at www.destinationgrandcanyon.com or calling 1(877) 716-WEST (9378).

# # # Media Contact: Colin Daviau Momentum PR + Branding 702-444-2284 pr@destinationgrandcanyon.com Photo Caption: Megan Mosby, Executive Director of Liberty Wildlife, and Jan Miller, Animal Care Coordinator with Liberty Wildlife, simultaneously release the rehabilitated Red-Tailed Hawks PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of Grand Canyon Skywalk