Raptor Encounters

Meet a Raptor

Enjoy a private 45-minute program with our Raptor Centre staff, who are pleased to give you a personalized introduction to the amazing world of birds of prey. Depending on the time of your program and your level of interest, you may get a behind the scenes peek at feeding, enrichment, or training, and a behind the scenes tour of the facility. Raptor Encounter guests will be given the opportunity to hold one of our resident raptors on glove and are invited to take their own photos of this fascinating experience!

a man holds an owl while a woman stands next to him

Fees

Raptor Encounter – $149(+HST) per group (group maximum of 5 people)

How do I book my Raptor Encounter?

Register Ahead

Walk-In

Walk-ins are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis.

A Turkey Vulture spreading its wings

Frequently Asked Questions

Raptor Encounter programs are designed for a maximum of 5 people at this time. We would be happy to organize a private show or program for larger groups—please contact Customer Service for more details!

Unfortunately, our staff’s attention will be on ensuring your group has an unforgettable, educational, and safe experience– they will be unable to take photos for you. However, you are encouraged to bring your own camera and take as many photos as you like. Our staff may be able to help out with a group photo in a pinch, but the safety of our guests and our birds is our primary consideration.

We encourage our Raptor Encounter guests to take pictures, however, photography is not the focus of the experience. Our photoshoot program has been designed to meet the needs of budding and experienced photographers looking for opportunities to photograph our magnificent raptors! Please click here for more details on Bird of Prey Photoshoots.

Whenever possible, the Raptor Encounter experience includes the opportunity to handle a bird of prey. There are only a few resident birds of prey at Mountsberg Conservation Area who are completely tolerant of new individuals when first introduced. While we will always try to accommodate requests to meet your favourite bird or species, the safety of our guests and birds is our number one priority. Certain birds may not be available to hold, but may be able to pose for a photograph with you— if bird availability is a consideration for you when booking a program, please speak with our staff for details. Please Note: In situations where handling a raptor raises safety concerns for guests, staff or the birds alternate activities (photos near birds, touch-table specimen exploration, etc) can be arranged.

Birds of prey are predatory carnivores. The Mountsberg Raptor Centre does not feed live prey, but the resident birds do consume meat in the form of rabbits, rats, mice, chicks, chicken, quail, fish, and other animals. While touring the Raptor Centre, you may see birds eating raw food, or witness it being prepared. Please speak with Raptor Centre staff at the beginning of your program if you have any concerns.

Yes, our programs are always appropriate for children of all ages! The content of the Raptor Encounter will be personalized to the group’s age and interest level. Please note: For safety reasons children may not be able to handle a bird of prey. Alternate activities (photos near birds, touch-table specimen exploration, etc) can be arranged.

Conservation Halton is committed to making our parks and programs accessible for all. Please inform our staff in advance if any member of your party has environmental allergies, special or exceptional needs, accessibility concerns, applicable phobias (birds, insects, sudden movements, loud noises), or sensitivities. We are happy to discuss the program in advance and personalize it for your group. If you or a member of your group requires a Service Animal, we are happy to provide temporary housing for that animal or alterations to the program. For safety reasons, Service Animals are not permitted in Raptor Encounter programs. Please Note: This program involves proximity to live animals. Although you are not in any danger from our birds, they are still capable of independent movement, noise, and activity—please ensure all members of your party are able to stay calm around animals before you book your Raptor Encounter.

Yes, non-members must pay a gate fee in addition to the Raptor Encounter fee.