Bengo

Red-Crested Turaco

Bengo was seen being sold at an exotic animal auction. Raptor Hallow's executive director purchased him to ensure he went to a safe home with knowledgeable caretakers. When he first arrived, Bengo was fearful of humans, but his keepers were extremely patient with him and, by using positive reinforcement — and a lot of grapes — Bengo was able to overcome his fear. Since then, he has continued to gain confidence and has progressed to interact with large audiences and even hop across strangers' arms to demonstrate his natural behaviors during free-flight shows. Bengo helps educate the public about the special care these exotic birds require and the challenges they face in the wild.