Capes Raptor Centre

Had a wonderful time this morning at the Capes Raptor Centre. We went for the 11am bird experience and it was incredible to see and learn about the birds of prey and be able to get so close. Its fantastic that they are able to fly around freely and are not coerced in any way to do anything they dont want to. We managed to see Bonnie the barking owl, Albie the barn owl and Baby the black kite flying around today. Anne-Marie was really lovely and so informative and great with the birds. They are not-for-profit and rely on donations to keep functioning as a sanctuary so I recommend grabbing a small gift or treat in the visitor centre afterwards to support their work, as they rehabilitate injured birds and also rescue those that would no longer survive in the wild. Highly recommend!!

This was such a highlight of our trip to WA. The sanctuary is a beautiful bush property with paths meandering past the huge enclosures. The birds have physical and visual space to themselves, and seem so relaxed and healthy. The flight experience is completely brilliant, such magnificent creatures, being flown by staff members who clearly adore them. Anne-Marie’s commentary was expert, enthusiastic and funny. I wish I could go again and again. So nice to think the entry fee is going to support this important not-for-profit work.

We spent about 1.5 hours here and were in raptures about the raptors! Seriously, it’s a place where you’ll learn a lot about these majestic and beautiful birds, see them close up in large outdoor aviaries spread around the Centre’s forest and watch a fascinating display of several of the birds flying free to get food from the trainer’s hand or swooping to catch a piece of meat mid-flight. Very informative place with a gift shop packed with interesting books, prints, and a great variety of gifts and knickknacks. Very good value for money, especially when you know it’s not-for-profit and is helping rehabilitate and house sick and injured wildlife. I am now going to get a tree box or two to try and attract owls and other wildlife to nest in my trees!

I had the best time visiting the Raptors. The talk was given by a female presenter, and she was exceptional. She introduced us to several raptors and explained how they catch and eat their prey, their unique eyesight, and the silent flight of the barn owl. We learnt how few eggs are laid, and likely only one survives per couple per year. We also learnt that if the parents eat mice affected by the rat poisons, they too will get very sick and likely die. So please be careful if you have to choose to use a poison. Consider all the alternatives first. The walk around the cages of the birds that are unable to be released was interesting too. It felt very peaceful too. I did not see any direct pleas for donations, but I feel sure there should have been. It is a very worthy cause. It would be wonderful if the cages could be upgraded.