PlanetEye

Throughout time Eagles have been a symbol of strength, freedom and authority over the bird world and if you are a bird lover a visit to Eagle Encounters in the Cape Winelands is well worth the effort. This was a review that I was dreading as I have Ornithophobia - a fear of birds but I braved it once again.

Established in December 2001 by Tracey and Hank Chalmer, Eagle Encounters is a rehabilitation centre for birds of prey of all types along with conservation, education and eco tourism services. They are based at the Spier Wine Estate in Stellenbosch.

Its best to set aside 1 ½ hours for viewing and interaction with the birds in their special 'Touch Gallery'. I was brave enough to interact with all the birds and to even have a one eyed eagle which had been rehabilitated after loosing an eye as a juvenile perch on my hand. Having had my fair share of excitement we made our way over to a display area where there's a show everyday with the following schedule:

11h00 - Eagle, Hawk and Falcon Training during which these amazing birds exhibit amazing techniques when hunting and feeding. One of the participant is the Peregrine Falcon which is the fastest animal on the planet.

14h00 - Falconry Interactive Display where you will see an array of Buzzards, Hawks, Kites, Owls and Falcons. This is a fun filled session that is enjoyed by all ages.

15h00 - A Secretary Bird Demonstration during which you will witness the strength and accuracy of the beautiful Secretary Bird during a simulated hunt.

16h00 - Built to Kill Session will leave you in awe of these great creatures as they display their hunting skills in a set environment.

It was during the Falconry Interactive Display when I specially asked the trainer not to include me as I would only to observe, but clearly an Eagle had a different plan and before I knew it he was to display his agility by flying from a treetop roost straight onto my head!!!.

Eagle Encounters is NOT a zoo but a place of recuperation,rehabilitation and conservation and is an experience I wont forget and highly recommend.

I also have a phobia of bungee jumping but my partner is looking into that for later this year so stay in touch!!