Barnswallow, a raptor rehabilitation and public education center, is situated in a peaceful, country setting next to an Illinois nature preserve outside Wauconda, Illinois. Operated by Linda Breuer and a largely volunteer staff, Barnswallow is home to numerous owls, hawks and other raptors who have been injured or abused by some type of human interaction, whether being hit by a vehicle or illegally captured by some witless person. Some of the hawks and owls at Barnswallow act as foster parents to orphaned nestlings, but most are ambassadors of their species, appearing at programs and events throughout the year, helping Linda teach the public about raptor rehabilitation and conservation.

Many species of butterflies have found not only shelter but a dazzling array of flowers and patches of milkweed to feed upon at Barnswallow. The immaculate grounds are a visual pleasure and only heighten one's anticipation of being close to, and learning about, the resident raptors. While Linda's knowledge helps educate humans in various communities is a wonderful experience, a trip to Barnswallow truly ties everything together—Linda's devotion to these creatures, the closeness with Nature, and the birds themselves.