Wildlife Research Institute

Ron Niebrugge California, Photos, Travel 2 Comments

A handler with a gyrfalcon during the Hawk Watch

A handler with a gyrfalcon during the Hawk Watch

Last Saturday we visited the Wildlife Research Institute in Ramona, California located in Eastern San Diego County.  This wonderful non profit research and educational organization offers a Hawk Watch on Saturday mornings.  This entertaining and informative watch is completely free, and brings a large crowd, so be there a bit before 10 a.m. for parking.  Every Saturday is different, but involves a number of captive birds brought in by handlers, not to mention the numerous wild hawks flying around the large open property – I would highly recommend it if you are in the area – I know I learned a lot!

Above is a photo of a handler with a Gyrfalcon, below is another handler training a Peregrine Falcon  as it tries to grab a piece of food swung in the air on a cord.  These birds are amazing to watch in flight, and in the wild have been clocked at an incredible 240 miles an hour!  During another point during the watch a handler had a Harris Hawk flying just feet above our heads as it came in for food.

Peregrine Falcon trying to catch food being swung on a cord as part of a training exercise.

Peregrine Falcon trying to catch food being swung on a cord as part of a training exercise.

Comments 2

  1. Hello, I am looking for an opportunity near San Francisco to experience the wonder of Avian raptors !
    It is to be a gift for my 43 year old son, Skye, who will be thrilled for the opportunity. I am grateful for any leads you might have to arrange this. I would be interested in arranging and paying for a private session with a handler. Thank you so much ! ~ Sunny Thompson

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