Realizing
his lifestyle was not safe or sustainable, Stotts was drawn to falconry
and river conservation as an alternative to jail, or perhaps more
likely, death. “I found that my love for the environment and raptors was
greater than the love for drug dealing,” Stotts explained.
According
to Stotts, falconry is important in two ways; it saves the lives of
raptors and helps to keep the population healthy and it crosses all
color, socioeconomic and ethnic barriers. Through his work, he makes the
powerful connection between endangered species of all kinds that
include the Bald Eagle in DC to local youth who must navigate survival
in a stressed community.
The Earth Conservation Corps
currently employs its raptors to engage local youth in environmental
education activities. Says Rodney, “Falconry can help build character,
compassion and caring. It’s importance is immeasurable. It changes
lives.”
