Did you know that an eagle weighs almost 3 kilos? Whereas we don't seem to feel the weight of an owl? Try the Falconer for a Day experience atEspace Rambouillet and feel for yourself, as you slip into the shoes of those who do this exceptional job, in contact with the most beautiful birds!
In the heart of the Rambouillet forest in the Yvelines department, this wildlife park not only gives you the chance to see deer and fallow deer up close, but also to better understand the work of those who care for them. Here we met Solène, an animal keeper with a passion for these majestic birds of prey, who looks after their well-being with her colleagues and accompanies them on their daily free-flight display, a show designed to introduce the general public to owls, vultures, eagles and owls from all over the world.
Whether you're an avian enthusiast or simply curious to experience an adventure alongside them, you're in for a real thrill for almost two hours as you meet your mate for the day. Of course, only the friendliest and most human-like birds are assigned to this activity, so there's no danger involved! Just as during the show, the animals are never forced to perform if they're in a bad mood.
Put on a protective glove, as the talons of these birds of prey can be sharp, before discovering the history of falconry, a very ancient art form listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which appeared in our regions in the Middle Ages. To feed them, be careful if you're particularly sensitive, as you'll have to handle chick legs as a reward!
During the morning, we met Willow, a superb, calm and observant female Great Horned Owl. If you can't tell the difference between an owl and a barn owl, you will by the end of the day, and you'll learn a lot about the biology and environment of this nocturnal bird of prey, all the while looking through its huge eyes that stare back at us.
With Solène's expert advice, we alternate between carrying the owl on our arm and letting it fly, returning to perch after a few wingbeats. In a moment of sharing, you can even gently stroke its feathers, Willow being particularly at ease in the presence of humans. Other birds can also be presented during this falconry experience, notably buzzards or, more rarely, eagles, the bald eagle being the emblem of the United States.
We were lucky enough to have an impressive encounter with the latter, which is much heavier and more imposing than the owl! To round off your experience, you'll become the day's falconer, taking part in the morning's show in front of the public. This is an extraordinary moment that can be enjoyed by up to 5 people, with family or friends, from 8 years old accompanied by an adult, or from 15 years old on your own.
Unforgettable!
Espace Rambouillet, hectares of forest to observe deer, fallow deer, wild boar and birds of prey
For a day in the forest with animals, head for Espace Rambouillet, in the Yvelines, where you can observe deer, fallow deer, wild boar and birds of prey in complete freedom. [Read more]
Location
Espace Rambouillet
Espace Rambouillet
78120 Clairefontaine en Yveline
Prices
€150
Recommended age
From 8 years old
Official website
www.espacerambouillet.fr
Espace Rambouillet, hectares of forest to observe deer, fallow deer, wild boar and birds of prey
