Red Funnel’s vehicle ferry Red Eagle marked her 30th birthday by welcoming a Very Important Bird on board – Kailani, an 11-year-old bald eagle.
Kailani joined crew onboard the Red Eagle to mark the milestone, having travelled with Red Funnel as part of her rehoming journey to Robin Hill Country Park on the Isle of Wight.
Alongside her handler, Charlotte Bell, she had a chance to meet the crew, stopping by to say hello – or chirp – to Master Matthew and Mater Lewis on the bridge, which sits 2 metres higher than Red Funnel’s other vehicle ferries.
Kailani travelled with Red Funnel across the Solent as part of her rehoming journey to The Falconry Experience, based in Robin Hill. She is one of the newest additions to the centre and is currently undergoing training as she settles into her new environment.
Discussing Kailani’s rehabilitation, Charlotte Bell, co-director of The Falconry Experience, commented:
“Kailani has settled in incredibly well in the short time we’ve had her. She’s building a strong bond with myself, and her confidence is growing every day. She’s currently regrowing her damaged feathers, it’s amazing to see her transformation already underway and we can’t wait for the day this beautiful Bald Eagle takes to the skies again.”
Her trip has also ticked off another accomplishment for Red Funnel, which has now matched three of its vehicle ferries with their bird namesakes. In recent years, a falcon has travelled on board the Red Falcon and a kestrel on the Red Kestrel. To complete the set, Red Funnel’s next task is to welcome an osprey onto Red Osprey.
Commenting on the celebrations, Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, said:
“Marking Red Eagle’s 30th birthday with such a special passenger on board was the perfect way to celebrate. Eagles, kestrels, falcons and ospreys are all part of the Island’s natural heritage, and we’re proud to work alongside animal charities and organisations like The Falconry Experience to help protect them. As Red Eagle celebrates this milestone, we look forward to many more years of making important crossings for everyone who calls the Island home – including our feathered friends!”
