The Raptors of Minnesota - Grades 9 - 12

60 minutes

With a more intense environmental focus, this program is designed to meet Minnesota and national science standards using live raptors to explore human impact on the environment. In addition to teaching raptor biology and natural behavior, instructors link critical environmental-impact issues, such as lead poisoning, West Nile virus, and habitat destruction, to each species presented. This program helps students identify and predict factors that influence how raptors and humans survive and interact in our shared environment. Students explore specific issues such as DDT and environmental success stories like that of the peregrine falcon. Students explore the delicate role each species plays within an ecosystem and define how interactions with one species may affect many others.

The auditorium program is followed by a tour of The Raptor Center and the outdoor housing area, where participants see most of our 31 education raptors and hear some of their exciting stories. Careers in the environment and veterinary medicine are explored as students learn about The Raptor Center and its important role in protecting raptors and the world we share. Everyone leaves feeling inspired and empowered, having learned specific things they can do to help protect raptors and the environment.

Program highlights

• At least three raptors, such as a vulture, hawk, owl, or falcon
• At least one raptor education specialist
• A tour of TRC and the outdoor housing area, where participants see most of our 31 education raptors (Tours do not go outside during inclement weather or courtyard maintenance.)
• Hands–on teaching tools such as feathers, wings, skulls, and feet
• Interactive experiences

Programs can be modified to meet specific learning objectives upon teacher request.

A group size 45 or less provides the best educational experience. Larger groups can be accommodated with some program modifications.

Program costs

• $5 per student or senior
• $7.50 per adult
• One chaperone is admitted free for every 10 students.
• Minimum: 12 students or $60 minimum fee

Hours

• Tuesday-Thursday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday: Noon-4 p.m.
• Closed Monday

Extend your learning experience by purchasing owl pellets to dissect in your classroom!

To schedule a program, call 612-624-2756 or e-mail raptored@umn.edu.