The Hershey Park falconry experience offers visitors a unique opportunity to interact with majestic birds of prey. This two-hour program, led by Master Falconer Jack Hubley, combines educational elements with hands-on experiences. Participants can witness free-flight demonstrations, learn about falconry techniques, and even have birds land on their gloved hands. The experience is available at various times throughout the year, with options for both resort guests and public visitors.
What Does the Hershey Park Falconry Experience Include?
The Hershey Park falconry experience is a comprehensive program that offers participants a deep dive into the world of birds of prey. Here’s what you can expect:
- Free-flight demonstrations
- Simulated hunt demonstrations
- Hands-on interaction with birds
- Educational talks about falconry and conservation
- Opportunity to have birds land on your gloved hand
The experience typically features various birds of prey, including falcons and Harris’ Hawks. Participants will learn about the biology, behavior, and conservation efforts related to these magnificent creatures.
How Long Does the Hershey Park Falconry Experience Last?
The standard Hershey Park falconry experience lasts for approximately 2 hours, usually from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This duration allows for a comprehensive experience that includes:
- Introduction to falconry
- Demonstrations of bird behavior and flight
- Hands-on interactions
- Q&A session with the falconer
For those seeking a more personalized experience, there are additional options:
- Private Falconry Experience: Available for groups of one to four guests, with additional group rates for larger groups.
- Hawk Walk: A unique 2-hour experience limited to 2-4 guests, where participants take a walk around the hotel grounds with a Harris’ Hawk.
Who Can Participate in the Hershey Park Falconry Experience?
The Hershey Park falconry experience is designed to be inclusive, but there are some age restrictions and guidelines:
- All children must be accompanied by an adult
- Children 2 years and younger are admitted free
- All other participants, including children, must pay the applicable fee
It’s important to note that while there are no specific participant limits for the standard experience, the Private Falconry Experience and Hawk Walk have restrictions:
- Private Falconry Experience: 1-4 guests (larger group rates available)
- Hawk Walk: 2-4 guests
What Are the Costs Associated with the Hershey Park Falconry Experience?
The cost of the Hershey Park falconry experience varies depending on the type of experience and whether you’re a resort guest or public visitor. Here’s a breakdown:
| Experience Type | Resort Guest | Public Guest |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (Adult) | $80 | $90 |
| Standard (Child 12 and under) | $50 | $50 |
| Private Falconry Experience | $150 per person (1-4 guests) | $150 per person (1-4 guests) |
| Hawk Walk | $150 per person | $150 per person |
For the Private Falconry Experience and Hawk Walk, additional group rates may be available for larger groups.
When Is the Hershey Park Falconry Experience Available?
The availability of the Hershey Park falconry experience varies throughout the year:
- Spring: Saturdays and Sundays in April; Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in May
- Summer: Mondays, Wednesdays to Sundays
- Fall: Saturdays and Sundays, plus specific Fridays in September, October, and November
- Winter: Saturdays and Sundays
For the specialized experiences:
- Private Falconry Experience: Available by appointment from January 2 – May 27 and September 7 – December 30
- Hawk Walk: Available by appointment from January 2 – April 15 and November 15 – December 30
What Do Participants Say About the Hershey Park Falconry Experience?
Reviews of the Hershey Park falconry experience are overwhelmingly positive. Participants consistently praise:
- The educational value of the experience
- The knowledgeable and engaging falconers
- The opportunity for hands-on interaction with the birds
- The overall organization and safety measures
Many reviewers describe the experience as a highlight of their visit to Hershey Park, emphasizing the unique nature of the activity and its appeal to both adults and children.
How Does the Hershey Park Falconry Experience Compare to Other Animal Encounters?
The Hershey Park falconry experience stands out from other animal encounters in several ways:
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Specialized Focus: Unlike general animal encounters, this experience focuses exclusively on birds of prey, offering in-depth knowledge and interaction.
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Hands-On Interaction: Participants have the rare opportunity to have birds land on their gloved hands, providing a more intimate experience than many other animal encounters.
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Educational Component: The experience is led by a Master Falconer, ensuring a high level of expertise and educational value.
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Variety of Experiences: With options like the Hawk Walk and Private Falconry Experience, visitors can choose a level of interaction that suits their interests and comfort level.
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Conservation Awareness: The experience raises awareness about bird conservation, providing context beyond mere entertainment.
What Should I Wear for the Hershey Park Falconry Experience?
While there are no strict dress codes for the Hershey Park falconry experience, it’s advisable to:
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes
- Dress in layers, as the experience takes place outdoors
- Avoid loose, dangling jewelry or accessories
- Consider wearing long sleeves for added protection when handling birds
The falconry team will provide any necessary protective equipment, such as gloves for handling the birds.
How Can I Book the Hershey Park Falconry Experience?
Booking the Hershey Park falconry experience is straightforward:
- Visit the official Hotel Hershey website
- Navigate to the Recreation section
- Select the Falconry Experience option
- Choose your preferred date and experience type
- Follow the booking instructions to secure your spot
For the Private Falconry Experience and Hawk Walk, it’s recommended to book well in advance due to limited availability.
What Makes the Hershey Park Falconry Experience Unique?
The Hershey Park falconry experience stands out for several reasons:
- Expert Guidance: Led by Master Falconer Jack Hubley, ensuring a high-quality, educational experience
- Variety of Birds: Interaction with different species of birds of prey, including falcons and Harris’ Hawks
- Customizable Experiences: Options range from group sessions to private experiences and specialized Hawk Walks
- Scenic Location: The experience takes place in the beautiful grounds of The Hotel Hershey
- Year-round Availability: Unlike some seasonal attractions, the falconry experience is offered throughout the year
These factors combine to create a memorable and unique animal encounter that sets the Hershey Park falconry experience apart from other wildlife attractions.
In conclusion, the Hershey Park falconry experience offers a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with magnificent birds of prey. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique family activity, this experience provides education, excitement, and unforgettable memories.
References:
1. https://www.thehotelhershey.com/recreation/falconry.php
2. http://jackhubley.com/hershey-falconry.htm
3. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g52819-d10836423-Reviews-The_Falconry_Experience-Hershey_Pennsylvania.html