Half Day Bird Handling Experience

This Experience gives people the chance to handle and fly a number of different species of birds of prey at the centre. After tea/coffee participants will be given a guided tour of the centre where they will see a large variety of species from the small Kestrel to the large and impressive Eagles and Vultures; they will also be encouraged to ask the falconer any questions. They will then fly at least 5 birds in the arena at the centre, as we regularly change the species of birds flown each day we cannot say exactly which birds they will fly but it tends to a Kestrel, Buzzard, Harris Hawk, Striated Caracara and different species of owls.

The half day commences at 10.15 with tea/coffee and biscuits and finshes at 1pm. Minimum Age: 12 years

Any relative or friend wishing to be present for the duration of the experience will be classed as an "observing participant" for which a charge of £12.50 per person will be made. This will entitle him or her to accompany the participant at all times and includes tea/coffee. Observers can be paid for on the day of the experience.

Frequently asked questions about our Half Day Experience

How often do you run the Experiences and how far ahead do I need to book a date?

We run all our experiences throughout the year and on various days to suit demand (weekend and weekdays). We operate on a first-come, first serve basis for all dates.To book a date we generally say as far in advance as possible, but occasionally we can accomodate people at short notice if places are available. Weekend dates are the most popular and can book up very quickly at certain times of the year. To book a date please call us on 01562 700014 (9am-5pm, 7 days a week).

I have paid online, how long does it take to receive the voucher?

Please allow 3-5 working days for delivery but generally they are sent out 1st Class on the day we receive the booking, or the next day if received after 5pm. If you have left it a bit too late for a voucher to reach you for a present, we can email you a copy to print off, and the hard copy will arrive after (please call us to arrange this).

How do I book a specific date when I pay for the voucher?

Unfortunately there is no way to book a date online, so if you wished to book a date when you purchase the experience, please call us to pay and book the date. If you prefer not to pay by card over the phone then you can arrange the date with us over the phone first and then pay online above.

How many participants are in a group?

We limit all our experience sessions to around 6 participants flying the birds, but then there may also be observers.

Can we take photographs?

Students on our bird handling experiences are welcome to bring their own camera/ video cameras to take photographs during their time with us. Flash is also not a problem for the birds.

Can other people come and take photographs?  

Instead of being an observer (see above), from time to time participants ask if relatives or friends may also attend just to take photographs of them with the birds. If you speak to a member of staff about this they will be happy to arrange a time when this is convenient, (usually just before the lunch break). The normal admission charge will apply.

What happens if the weather is bad on the date of my experience?

We will run the experiences in most weather conditions, but we also want you to enjoy your experience. If the weather is predicted to be bad before your booked date, you can rearrange a new date.