| For anybody interested in birds, the Hawk Conservancy Centre in
Weyhill, near Andover, is an _absolute_ must.
They care for a wide variety of raptors, including owls, eagles,
vultures, falcons - many of these birds can be seen in large open
aviaries. They also have a breeding programme and, during gestation,
the female birds are housed in secure accomodation. These have
a one way mirror for viewing purposes. Last time I was there they
had a Kestrel and a Perregrine Falcon due to deliver imminently.
The Centre also employs a number of expert falconers and flying
displays are given four times each day (12:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00). To
see the birds doing what comes naturally to them is the _only_ way to
appreciate their true beauty. Plus, if you're a good boy or girl (and
over 18 years of age), you will have the chance to fly a bird
yourself!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This place is a good idea for a day out with the kids or with your
partner. There are toilet facilities and a small cafeteria.
I would suggest a phone call first to ensure that they are flying
the birds on the day of your visit: (Weyhill) 0264 772252
If you want directions, it is very easy to find: the Centre is
just off the A303, slightly west of Andover. Your best bet to find
it is to travel to the A303 and then beetle along it (in whichever
direction suits you best) until you see the signs for the Hawk
Conservancy at Weyhill - just south of the A303, west of Andover.
The Centre is marked on most road atlases with whatever symbol is
used to denote a bird sanctuary.
Check it out you ornithologists - it's worth it.
Jon
|