Three raptors died, eagle rescued in Aurora museum fire

AURORA, Neb. (KSNB) - A bald eagle is being treated for smoke inhalation after a Friday morning fire at the Edgerton Explorit Center in Aurora.

The eagle, named Aquila, is part of the museum’s raptor education program. Three other raptors were lost in the fire.

In a statement posted to Facebook Friday morning, the museum said the fire happened in the raptor enclosure. An Eastern Screech Owl named Doc, a Swainson’s Hawk named Roy and an American Kestrel named Chetan were killed in the fire.

The fire was reported shortly after 7 a.m. Friday. Aurora Fire Chief Jeff Schneider said when crews arrived on the scene, there was heavy black smoke and flames coming from an enclosed wooden structure at the back of the building.

Schneider reported that crews were able to put out the fire in around 15 minutes and that damage was limited to the outside of the building.

A spokesperson at a nearby business told Local4 there was “lots of fire trucks and smoke.”

Mary Molliconi, the executive director of the Explorit Center, said the bald eagle Aquila was taken to Park’s Veterinary Clinic in Grand Island, where he was being treated in an oxygen chamber for smoke inhalation.

The Edgerton said while they are grieving, they remain deeply committed to their mission.

The statement said “the raptor program has touched countless lives, and we will move forward with determination to rebuild and continue this important work in honor of the birds we lost.

“Our hearts especially ache for Deb Miller, our raptor specialist, who cared for these birds every day and shared the closest bond with them,” the statement reads.

Edgerton Explorit Center said in the post that the museum would be closed for a few days for cleaning and damage assessment to make sure the facility is safe for visitors, staff and animals.

Molliconi said there was no damage to the inside, except for the smell of smoke, which will be addressed.

“We are grateful for the outpouring of support and compassion from our community during this incredibly difficult time.”

For those who have asked how they can help, donations to support rebuilding the raptor program can be made at:

• Edgerton Explorit Center

• 208 16th Street, Aurora, NE 68818

• or online at https://edgerton.org/support-us/donate/

At this time, it is unclear how the fire started.