What types of programming does Raptor Insights Offer?
Program offerings and fee structure are listed below. Programs can be adapted to particular needs and preferences. Fees are used for the care and maintenance of the birds in our collection. Donations are tax-deductible.
Raptor Insights Programs and Fees:
Standard Public Education Program – a standard public education includes a 50 to 60-minute presentation on the identification, natural history of the species, and life history of the bird for 8-10 raptors. A narrative is presented as the bird is exhibited. Questions are answered after each bird is presented and at the end of the program as time permits. The fee for a standard program is $180.
Extended exhibition – for longer term programs (festivals, field days, conferences, etc.), individual raptors are periodically rotated in groups of 3-4 for up to 4 hours with intermittent presentation about individual birds. The fee for extended exhibition is $180 for the first hour and $125 per hour thereafter.
Consultation – consultations are targeted to individual or group needs and areas of interest. Specific issues on captive care, management, and training are covered in greater depth than for public education. The fee is the same as for extended exhibition with a 2-hour minimum. Live birds are exhibited to demonstrate anatomy, biology, species differences, and techniques and procedures.
What is available in classroom instruction and consulting?
A course on raptor biology, care, and management is available based on a 2-credit course initially taught by Dr. Parks at Cornell University for over 20 years. The course includes lecture, video, demonstrations, special projects, and workshops with live birds. Consulting on raptor care and management is offered for schools, wildlife rehabilitators, veterinarians, teachers, wildlife managers, and researchers.
What is Captive Breeding?
Captive breeding is the production of selected raptors in captivity. This approach has been used successfully with threatened and endangered species and was largely responsible for the restoration of the once-endangered peregrine falcon.
How can I arrange for a Raptor Insights Educational Program?
Raptor Insights offers educational programs on the identification, biology, natural history, and conservation of birds of prey. Audiences have included schools, nature centers, youth groups, civic organizations, police academies, churches, prisons, state parks, and local festivals. A standard program is about 1 hour. For further information on scheduling please use the Contact Us form.