They are a powerful force in the natural world. Birds with long sharp talons, amazing strength, hooked beaks that tear, and highly developed eyesight and hearing. They are raptors, the superior hunters of the avian world. Birds of prey with keen adaptations that provide speed and accuracy for the hunt. And they're coming to the Audubon Society of Rhode Island's Environmental Education Center for Raptor Weekend, September 10 and 11, 2011.
Wildlife rehabilitators and experts from across the Northeast will be showcasing a wide variety of these extraordinary birds of prey at the largest raptor celebration in New England. Eagles, falcons, owls, and hawks will be featured in live flight demonstrations and educational programs for bird enthusiasts of all ages.
Join master falconer Laurie Schumacher from Hamilton, New York, for Talons! A Bird of Prey Experience on September 10 and 10 - a European Eagle Owl, Barred Owl and Harris' Hawk are just a few of the raptors she presents. Breath-taking free flight demonstrations highlight this program focusing on falconry, raptor biology, and conservation.
Marcia Wilson of Eyes on Owls will introduce the audience to a Snowy Owl, Spectacled Owl and five or six other live owls found in New England as well as other parts of the world on Saturday, September 10. Wilson will also explore the protection of owls and their habitats. Featured throughout the weekend will be numerous programs showcasing live birds of prey by the Audubon Society of Rhode Island.
Programs throughout both days include entertaining and educational activities for families. Admission also provides access to the award-winning Audubon Environmental Education Center and entrance to the Center's 28-acre wildlife refuge, including the scenic boardwalk to Narragansett Bay. Food and refreshments will be available.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Featuring
Eyes on Owls
See six live owls found in New England as well as other parts of the world, including a magnificent snowy owl.
Talons! A Bird of Prey Experience
Gyr Falcon, European Eagle Owl and American Kestrel are just a few of the raptors featured, along with breath-taking free flight demonstrations.
Horizon Wings
Peregrine Falcon, Broad-winged Hawk, Barn Owl and other majestic birds in an inspiring
presentation on raptor conservation.
PLUS! Everyday is full of exhibits and activities for the whole family to enjoy
Saturday, September 10
10:00 am Audubon Raptor Presentation
10:30-11:30 am Eyes on Owls
11:30am-12:30 pm Talons
1:00-2:00 pm Eyes on Owls
2:00 pm Owls of New England
2:30-3:30 pm Talons
3:15 pm Audubon Raptor Presentation
Sunday, September 11
10:00-11:00 am Talons
11:00-12:00 pm Wildlife Rehabilitators Association of Rhode Island talk
11:30am-12:30 pm Horizon Wings
1:00 pm Hawk Identification
12:30-1:30 pm Talons
1:30-2:30 pm Horizon Wings
2:30 pm Binoculars 101
3:00 pm Audubon Raptor Presentation
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Wildlife rehabilitators and experts from across the Northeast will be showcasing a wide variety of these extraordinary birds of prey at the largest raptor celebration in New England. Eagles, falcons, owls, and hawks will be featured in live flight demonstrations and educational programs for bird enthusiasts of all ages.