Canadian Raptor Conservancy in Ontario lets you visit Bald Eagles and other birds of prey
If you've ever wanted to get up close and personal with some of North America's most majestic predators of the sky, one of the best places to do so is at the Canadian Raptor Conservancy just outside of Port Dover.
The conservancy has been around for over two decades, combining education and entertainment for visitors while continuing programs of rehabilitation, breeding of endangered species, and the raising and training of birds of prey.
You may have seen team members and birds from the conservancy at various popular events throughout the province, including the Canadian National Exhibition or Ancaster Fair. Some of the feathered residents are even stars in their own right, having appeared in television series and films.
The Canadian Raptor Conservancy's primary objective is public education, and they partake in thousands of travelling shows annually to engage and inform crowds across the country.
At these shows, handlers put on demonstrations with birds trained for free flight. While the birds fly, the handler and interpreter educates the audience on each one's unique characteristics.
Alternatively to attending a show, you can visit the birds of prey directly in their home habitat at the conservancy's large plot of land, just 10 minutes south of Simcoe.
With 30 different species and over 200 birds who call the park home, you can see everything from the uncommon Bald Eagle to endangered owls and falcons.
Birders, photographers, and enthusiasts can also book private or public photography sessions where they can snap pictures of up to 12 birds of prey, both in flight and static. Public sessions start at $60 per person.
If you'd like to visit the conservancy, appointments are required in advance. Public session dates and times are posted on their Facebook page, but you must reserve your slot. You can also check their website for upcoming shows and events.
