The Ojai Raptor Center sought to set the record straight after they say they saw individuals selling merchandise featuring the beloved Big Bear bald eagle, Jackie, and being promoted as benefitting the center.
“Ojai Raptor Center Does Not Sell Patient Merchandise,” the center stated.
Although the center does have an online shop with merchandise, they made it clear that they do not create or sell merchandise that features their patients.
According to the center, the Friends of Big Bear Valley has been the only organization that has contacted the Ojai Raptor Center regarding a collaboration for merchandise featuring Jackie. However, the center requested that they do not receive any of the proceeds.
“While we fully support FOBBV and appreciate the beautiful project they created, we specifically requested that none of the proceeds from their merchandise be donated to Ojai Raptor Center,” the center said.
The center offered alternative options for anyone interested in helping their local wildlife rehabilitation center, including:
• Purchasing merchandise from their official shops
• Purchasing needed supplies from their official wishlists, like Amazon
• Donating through their official fundraising campaigns
• Following and subscribing to their social media accounts
• Sharing their stories and educational work
“Wildlife rehabilitation centers across the country depend heavily on public support to provide specialized care for injured, orphaned and displaced wildlife,” the center said.