Falcons and Falconry - All Ages, The Raptor Center at the University of Minnesota

Humans and raptors have a connection that predates modern American history. Learn about the exciting sport of falconry and its impact on our world today. Join specialists from The Raptor Center as they entertain you with falconry stories from years past, current raptor training techniques, and critical conservation issues that face today's birds of prey. The 60-minute program includes live raptors traditionally used in the sport of falconry, such as the red-tailed hawk, peregrine falcon, golden eagle, and American kestrel, plus many hands-on props for students to touch, such as traditional falconry equipment, raptor feet, wings, feathers, and skulls for students to touch.

The auditorium program is followed by a tour of The Raptor Center and the outdoor housing area, where participants see most of our 31 education raptors and hear some of their exciting stories.

Program highlights

• At least one raptor education specialist
• At least three raptors such as an eagle, hawk, and falcon
• A tour of TRC and the outdoor housing area, where participants see most of our 31 education raptors (Tours do not go outside during inclement weather and courtyard maintenance.)
• Hands-on teaching tools such as feathers, wings, skulls, and feet
• Interactive questions

Programs can be modified to meet specific learning objectives upon teacher request.

A group size of 45 or less provides the best educational experience. Larger groups can be accommodated with some program modifications.

Program costs

• $5 per student or senior
• $7.50 per adult
• One chaperone is admitted free for every 10 students.
• Minimum: 12 students or $60 minimum fee

Hours

• Tuesday-Thursday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday: Noon-4 p.m.
• Closed Monday

To schedule this program, contact The Raptor Center education department at 612-624-2756 or raptored@umn.edu.