www.eagle-encounters.co.za

Martial eagle given back her freedom

Injured birds of prey find a home at The Heath

Eagle Encounters - a rehabilitation, education and eco-tourism centre for birds of prey, founded in December 2001 at Spier Wine Estate by Hank and Tracy Chalmers - has opened a second centre at The Heath (on the N2, 7km from Plettenberg Bay towards Knysna).

The Stellenbosch centre's passionate commitment to this vital work has seen countless birds of prey returned to the wild and the team at the new local centre is excited to extend these accomplishments to the Garden Route.

Eagle Encounters is dedicated to assisting in the conservation of birds of prey through creating community awareness. They provide the necessary facilities for the rescue, rehabilitation and release of successfully rehabilitated birds, while offering a haven for those unable to be released.

Birds of prey are brought to the centre by individuals, vets, animal welfare and other organisations involved with wildlife and conservation. Where possible, injured or confiscated birds are taken through a rehabilitation process and released - this is their main objective. Birds that can't be released are incorporated into their valuable education programmes and flying displays.

Says the local centre's Janet Forrest: "We are committed to educating our future generations by providing a personal and hands-on learning experience. We provide a platform for children from all walks of life to experience and understand birds of prey. With knowledge, every child has the ability to make a necessary contribution to the preservation of our wildlife."

"Our interactive flying displays provides visitors an opportunity to participate and photograph as we free-fly a variety of owls, kites, buzzards, hawks and falcons around and to you. These shows offer a unique and exciting opportunity for all ages to experience these magnificent birds of prey up close."

The centre offers a great place to relax, enjoy and learn from the variety of raptors currently housed, while The Heath is a great place for family fun, with its superb craft shop, unique furniture shop, licensed restaurant and outdoor activities for kids. Eagle Encounters is a non-profit organisation registered Section 21 company and funds are derived from entrance fees, donations and sponsorships. They are on call 24/7 to rescue birds of prey from all areas. They are open daily from 9am to 5pm with flying demonstrations at 2pm and 4pm, while personal interactive encounters are available all day.

Contact Janet for enquiries and bookings on 083 382 2417 or janet@eagle-encounters.co.za and phone Dennis with injured raptor info on 083 561 0973 visit www.eagle-encounters.co.za for further information.

www.cxpress.co.za - Wednesday, February 25, 2009