On April 23, Dr. Ariane Santamaria-Bouvier, with the assistance of Madis Leivits, "jessed up" Bald Eagle #08-0887. Jesses are strong but soft leather straps that serve as a leash for a bird's handler. They provide a "handle" to help secure and steady an eagle. These jesses were custom-designed and crafted by Center Education Coordinator Kelly Rourke. The jesses are designed to provide a minimum risk of entanglement or other injury to the bird.