easy
1–2 hours
No special fitness required; suitable for most ages and abilities
Meet majestic owls up close in Medina, Ohio, with the Izaak Walton League’s unique Owl Encounter. Learn falconry secrets and experience silent flight firsthand.
$80 per Participant • 2 Hours
Experience an unforgettable Owl Encounter, where you'll interact with various Old World and New World Owls used in falconry. Discover their training, environmental significance, and the secrets of silent flight. Plus, gain hands-on experience handling a Barn Owl or Eurasian Eagle Owl, making this a truly unique adventure.
During our Owl Encounter you’ll get up close and personal with a wide variety of different species of Old World and New World Owls that are now being used in the sport of falconry. As a result of participating in this program, you will...
Learn about how Owls are trained and utilized in the modern sport of Falconry and how it differs from working with hawks and falcons.
Learn about the oldest species of raptor on the planet and their important role in the environment.
Be able to highlight the three main differences between the two groups of owls in the world (Barn Owls and Typical Owls).
Learn about what makes “silent flight” possible as you witness our Owls flying up close.
Get an opportunity to apply basic falconry skills as you learn to handle one of our Barn Owls or our Eurasian Eagle Owls (Children must be 9 years of age or older to handle an owl).
Follow instructor guidance closely to ensure both your safety and the owls’ comfort during interaction.
Dressing in muted colors helps keep the owls calm and focused during close encounters.
Prompt arrival ensures you don’t miss important safety and training briefings before interaction begins.
Indoor sessions may be rescheduled in poor weather; confirm your booking in advance.
The Izaak Walton League was founded in 1922 to conserve natural resources and promote outdoor education.
The program emphasizes raptor conservation and habitat protection, encouraging sustainable wildlife appreciation.
Protect your feet during outdoor handling sessions.
Wear colors that won’t startle the owls during close contact.
Capture detailed photos without disturbing the birds.
Jot down fascinating falconry facts and learning points.