Vermont Institute of Natural Science to Bring Live Raptors to Fletcher School

The Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) will make two presentations at the Fletcher Elementary School on January 8th. Both presentations will include live birds of prey.

Beginning at 9:15 a.m., grades PK-2 will participate in Raptor Encounter, a first-hand experience that explores the characteristics and adaptations of birds of prey, as well as their daily life in the wild. The 30-minute presentation will include a live Owl and Falcon.

Beginning at 10:15 a.m., grades 3-6 will participate in Sport of Kings, an introduction to Falconry. This 45-minute experience explores Falconry, an ancient sport that takes prey by means of a trained raptor. Students will meet some of VINS' trained raptors as they learn how the principles, practices and equipment of falconry are still used today. The presentation includes a live Owl, Hawk and Falcon.

As part of the Fletcher School’s program of Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), a proactive approach to teaching children to be respectful, responsible, safe and caring across the school environment and beyond, students understand the school’s Falcon mascot to represent positive behavioral choices. The VINS presentations are generously funded in part the school’s parent group, FOFE, and are an exciting part of a Falcon-themed week-long review of school-wide behavioral expectations and strategies.

Both presentations are free and the community is encouraged to attend.