Rehab is for the Birds

Take the kids to encounter regal eagles at Spier

If you're plucky enough to come face to face with a wide selection of vicious killing machines - pop in at the Eagle Encounters Raptor Rehabilitation Centre. A visit to this non-profit bird hospital is a rousing treat for children and adults alike.

The rehabilitation centre was founded five years ago by Hank and Tracy Chalmers on land donated by Spier.

The centre - situated next to the Cheetah Outreach Programme on the Spier Estate - rehabilitates and releases wounded birds; plays their part in conserving the ecology and also aims to educate and create public awareness through community outreach programs.

Stroll through the centre and meet-and-greet a wide variety of weird- and wonderful-looking feathered friends.

Take a moment to gape in awe at Goliath, the centre's mammoth Martial Eagle: Martial Eagles are the largest hunting birds in South Africa; these winged giants can hunt down an adult impala.

Attend a variety of fun and informative displays: See the kids' excitement as Hank trains hand-raised eagles to fly or observe the hunting styles of various birds of prey.

Take part in a thrilling falconry display: Learn more about the ancient art of falconry; don a falconry glove and watch as Hank flies a selection of kites, buzzards, hawks and falcons around and to you; and stroke a bird as it perches on your glove.

Watch as Hank stimulates a snake hunt for Mary Ann, the Secretary Bird: This long legged seductress isn't as timid as she looks - she's got a black belt in karate - Secretary Birds kill their prey by 'karate chopping' it with their legs.

Look on as Mary Ann kicks Hank's hand with a loud "thump" to get to the tasty morsels of meat enclosed in it. Chuckle as she gets impatient with Hank and gives him a frustrated "I want food now!' kick. It's one of the best things to do with kids in the winelands of Cape Town.

Bird watching has never been this entertaining - But be warned, these stately winged predators are bound to charm their way straight into your heart.

Eagle Encounters Display Times:

11 am - Eagle Training
13 pm - Falconry Display
14 pm - Secretary Bird
16 pm - Built for the Kill

All Day - Up Close and Personal (A personal encounter with an Eagle)

Molo Says: "Spier has a wide array of activities on offer to do with kids on your holiday in Cape Town and Stellenbosch: Visit the Cheetah Outreach programme and the Village Hotel at Spier.

And something for the grown-ups while the kids are being entertained - learn to know your Merlot from your Cabernet at Spier's wine tasting centre; treat your taste buds at Moyo, Toto's Bar or Figaro's; or stay the night in one of the hotel's new art rooms.

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