All About Owls - All Ages

60 minutes

Do all owls hunt at night? Can they really turn their heads all the way around? Why are their eyes so big? Learn the answers to these and other questions about our mysterious friends the owls. All owl programs are based on the Minnesota and national science standards and include a variety of live owls. Learners also see a non-owl raptor, such as a hawk or falcon, to compare and contrast the unique features of owls with those of other raptors. Participants have the opportunity to debunk some of the cultural myths and legends associated with owls and learn about owls' natural behavior.

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. A variety of hands-on teaching tools, including an owl skull and wing, are used to support this unique learning experience. Owls fascinate and inspire people around the globe. Learn what you can do to help them.

Program highlights

• At least one raptor education specialist
• At least three owls, such as a great horned owl, barred owl, eastern screech owl, or barn owl
• 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 and courtyard maintenance.)
• Hands-on teaching tools, such as x-rays, feathers, wings, skulls, and feet
• Interactive questions

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

A group size of 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 through 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 this program, contact The Raptor Center education department at 612-624-2756 or raptored@umn.edu.