The center is situated within a working wine farm, integrating conservation directly into a commercial agricultural space.
Many of the resident birds are permanent rescues that could not be released back into the wild due to permanent injuries.
The facility actively uses falconry techniques to manage bird-pest populations on the surrounding farm vineyards, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
The program includes specific educational initiatives aimed at local schools to raise awareness about the impact of pesticides on raptor populations.
The site features a specialized hospital unit designed for the treatment and recovery of injured wildlife brought in by the public.
Eagle Encounters provides a permanent home for animals that are victims of the illegal exotic pet trade or human-wildlife conflict.
Eagle Encounters is a non-profit wildlife rehabilitation and education center located on the historic Spier Wine Farm. The facility specializes in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of birds of prey, including eagles, owls, and falcons. Visitors can observe these raptors in large, naturalistic aviaries and attend interactive flight demonstrations. The center also hosts a variety of other rehabilitated wildlife such as foxes, tortoises, and snakes. Programs focus on environmental education and the importance of raptors in maintaining ecosystem balance. The site operates as a sanctuary rather than a traditional zoo, with a primary mission centered on conservation and community awareness. Visitors can engage in falconry displays that highlight the unique hunting and flying behaviors of the birds.
The viewing area during the flight demonstration provides the best opportunity to photograph birds of prey mid-flight with a natural vineyard backdrop.
Bring a hat and sunscreen as the flight demonstration areas are largely outdoors with limited shade.
Check the daily program schedule upon arrival to ensure you do not miss the interactive flight demonstrations.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes as the terrain involves walking between various aviaries.
Do not wander off the marked paths on the Spier Wine Farm estate or approach wildlife outside of the center's enclosures.
Open daily throughout the year, including public holidays.
Maintain a quiet volume near the aviaries to avoid stressing the recovering animals; do not attempt to touch or feed any animals without direct supervision by staff.
