AU's Tiger, a 26-year-old golden eagle, is one of three eagles from the university's Southeastern Raptor Center that will make appearances. Spirit, a 7-year-old bald eagle, and Nova, a 5-year-old golden eagle, will also be available during the season.

"We have received approval from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to resume the eagles' gameday appearances," said interim President Ed Richardson. "We will definitely plan to have one at each home game. Auburn fans love these magnificent birds and this is a great way to promote the conservation of all birds of prey."

Timothy Boosinger, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, says a variety of factors such as temperature and weather conditions will determine whether pregame flights are possible.

"The early season heat is not good for the birds," he said. "They can get too hot very quickly. It is just like a person wearing a down jacket in the stadium in 90-degree heat. The trainers will make assessments game-by-game."

Tiger began her pregame flights in 2000 and performed in the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. She was sidelined during the football season that fall, so Spirit started flying before the games. In 2003, the appearances were temporarily suspended due to illnesses among wild birds at the raptor center.

"We are looking forward to Tiger's return," Boosinger said. "For a 26-year-old bird, she is in remarkably good condition. However, her right leg has a recurring lump that must be removed from time to time."

Recent tests have indicated that it is a benign mass. But Boosinger said veterinarians are monitoring the condition and will determine prior to each game if she can make an appearance.

"She is doing very well, but if the mass happens to need removing this fall, she won't be available for several weeks until it is healed," he added. "Obviously we will do what is best for Tiger."

Tiger's backups are ready if needed, although Nova has never flown in front of a large crowd.

"Both Spirit and Nova are young birds in excellent health and can make appearances," Boosinger said. "All three of the birds have been active in the raptor center's educational programs for the past several months."