Our family’s favorite fall event – Raptor Release by the U of M Raptor Center! This a great event for families with kids, grandkids, or nieces and nephews. Rovers without kids will enjoy watching these majestic rehabilitated birds return to the wild too!
http://carpenternaturecenter.org/events/fall-raptor-release/
The Raptors will be released at 11:00 and 2:00, so we will meet in front of the visitor center at 10:30. Typically three birds each time, including hawks, falcons, and eagles. We will find a spot on the hillside to watch the first release. Bring a blanket. Bring your own picnic lunch and we will find a place to enjoy lunch as a group after the first release. We will decide what we want to over lunch. It is a very flexible day. Activities include:
– Raptor displays
– Kids activities
– Hay rides
– Apple picking
– Hiking a nature trail
The activities run from 10:00-3:00, so feel free to come early and stay as late as you choose.
Dress for unpredictable late September weather. Bring sunscreen, a blanket, a picnic lunch, a camera, and binoculars (if you have them).
Pets are not allowed (event requirement).
The event is free, but donations to the U of M Raptor Center and/or the Carpenter Nature Center are suggested. Bring money if you plan to pick apples.
Location:
Carpenter St Croix Valley Nature Center
12805 St. Croix Trail S.
Hastings, MN 55033
Contact me so I know who to look for. Let me know if you are interested in carpooling from the Twin Cities. There is typically a short line to get into the parking area, so plan to arrive 10 minutes early.