Check back soon for more information on Fall Flights 2024!

Trainer Kelsey awestruck by Farrah the Ferruginous Hawk Landing on her glove

Linda Ledbetter

Autumn Visitors!

Autumn in Boise is a great time to visit the World Center for Birds of Prey to see Fall Flights. Every weekend from mid-September through the end of October, see our education birds fly outdoors, where they swoop and soar over the heads of delighted audiences to show off their amazing aerial skills. This is your best opportunity to get up-close to a hawk, falcon, or owl as they glide sometimes only inches over your head! 

Trainer Stephanie being photo bombed by Rosa the Aplomado Falcon

Linda Ledbetter

Narrated Flight Demonstration

Each 45-minute demonstration is narrated to help you learn about the exciting lives of these sky hunters! Children love the high-energy activity of the speeding falcons. Photographers will enjoy the opportunity to photograph the raptors as they fly within close proximity. Bird watchers will marvel to see some of the less common species such as the Aplomado Falcon.

Trainer Jadn as Finn soars low over the audience!

Jim Shane

Whatever your reason, plan to join us for this fall family tradition!

Thank you to our 13th Annual Fall Flight Sponsors!

Fall Flights Sponsor logos

Frequently asked questions, Fall Flights

Can I buy my Fall Flights tickets at the World Center for Birds of Prey?

No. All tickets must be purchased online, prior to arrival, due to limited seating capacity.

When should I arrive?

Doors open at 10 am and we recommend arriving by 10:30 am to allow time for parking, checking in, and seating before the Flights begin. Late arrivals will not be admitted, but may join the general public and explore the Interpretive Center. 

Will I be admitted to the Fall Flight presentation if I arrive late?

No. Late arrivals are not able to be admitted. Once the Flights begin, access to the amphitheater will be closed for the safety of the birds and seated guests.  Late arrivals are welcome to enjoy the Interpretive Center. 

Can I still visit the World Center for Birds of Prey if I am not attending Fall Flights?

Yes! The Velma Morrison Interpretive Center will remain open to the general public during the Fall Flights program. General Admission tickets are available upon arrival. However, the Interpretive Trails near the Raptor Ridge amphitheater will be closed during the Flights. 

How does Fall Flights affect the regularly scheduled programs?

Fall Flights does not interfere with the daily programs offered. The Velma Morrison Interpretive Center opens at 10 am to the general public and there will still be an 11 am presentation inside for those not participating in Fall Flights. The 1 pm and 3pm programs are also not affected.

What is included in Fall Flight tickets?

Online Fall Flight reservations include admission to Fall Flights, to the World Center for Birds of Prey, and to the Archives of Falconry.

Is this event a good fit for my children? 

Fall Flights are not recommended for children under 4 years of age or for individuals that cannot sit still for up to 45 minutes. Our trained raptors will be flying around and across our outdoor amphitheater, and it is important for bird and human safety that the audience remain seated throughout the program.

Are dogs allowed?

No dogs are allowed at Fall Flights or any other live bird program.

Can I bring my own blankets or seat cushions? 

Yes. The amphitheater has hard sandstone benches, and people are often more comfortable when they bring a seat cushion or blankets. No high back chairs are allowed.

What happens if there is inclement weather? 

Fall Flights is weather dependent. In the event of strong winds or precipitation, operator will make the call to cancel by 9 am on the day of the event, and your tickets will be fully refunded with a confirmation cancellation email. It is then up to the visitor to re-book for a later date if that is of interest. Our Interpretive Center will be open from 10 am to 5 pm regardless of weather.

How will I know if the event has been canceled?

Our website and Facebook page will be updated with the cancellation notice at 9am on the day of the program. On the morning of the canceled program, you will receive an email with notification of your automatic full refund (minus any donation included with your purchase). You can also call 208-362-8687 after 9 am on the day of the program to check the Flight status. If your Flight is canceled, it is your responsibility to re-purchase tickets to a future program.

 

Team Training for Raptor High Class of 2023

Hear from students

The volunteers and staff cultivate such a warm and welcoming and calm atmosphere and it is easy to see how much they love the people and environment around them. They are passionate, energetic, compassionate, and dedicated people and I am so lucky to have gotten to know some of them. It is incredible to be a member of Raptor High because of the lifelong memories, connections, and tools learned! I am more environmentally aware and know actions to take to improve the health of raptors (and thus other species and humans) thanks to Raptor High. It means a lot to me that this opportunity was available, fun, exciting, and educational! I think about being a science writer or teacher now. Thank you so much!