Eagle Encounters, Spier

Discovering unique activities like Eagle Encounters at Spier Wine Farm will always be a highlight find when it comes to rare gems.

Courtney has an obsession with eagles; always pointing out that every big bird in the sky is an eagle. During the December holidays at a Quick shop pitstop stood a rack filled with outdoor activity brochures and that’s how I found this establishment.

The Centre

Eagle Encounters is a wildlife rehabilitation, conservation, education, and eco-tourism center based at the historic Spier Wine Farm. It’s situated at the end of Spier Farm where you most likely not to go. Paying our R75.00 fee, you welcomed by pigs; clearly entertaining themselves and not bothered by our appearance at all. Note that you are allowed into their space and play with them.

Around the corner from the pigs, you’re startled by the size of the Black Eagle who death stared us as well as the Wahlberg’s Eagle. To our right, there’s a touching gallery where you allowed to cuddle and feel these beautiful owls who perch at your every touch. These golden owls feathers were so soft, it felt as though you were feeling absolutely nothing.

Live Show

We walked around and viewed every single eagle: big or small. They either just glared at us or simply didn’t bother to say hello. At 11:00, a live show was held where the facilitator educates you about the various vultures and their eating habits. I really enjoyed this part because it was interactive, having vultures fly in between the audiences and allowing kids to feed and participate in the show.

Personal Encounter

After the show, Courtney and I had a personal encounter with Willy, the Wahlberg Eagle. Let me tell you now how petrified I was when I saw the wings begin to flap. I literally pushed Courtney into the lions’ nest to go first.

The instructor handed over this hardened glove you put on your hand while he calms the eagle down. Then, he gentle hands the eagle over and yes, it’s actually a heavy creature in strength. You can feel how its claws are on you. Courtney seemed fearless; masterfully touching it with his hand while I was terrified to the core, using only my finger to stroke it.

I definitely recommend this place for anyone wanting to face their fears for eagles or just big birds. It’s really kidding friendly and a great place to take your kids for an interactive session. Visit their site for more information regarding the times and prices here.

Until the next adventure.