Center for Birds of Prey
Discover majestic raptors and support vital conservation efforts at this unique center. Witness incredible flight demonstrations and learn about birds...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Open days with flight demos
Center for Birds of Prey
Best Time
Open days with flight demos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover majestic raptors and support vital conservation efforts at this unique center. Witness incredible flight demonstrations and learn about birds of prey.
"An amazing day! Up close experiences with birds of prey and incredibly knowledgeable and friendly staff."
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time and secure your spot by purchasing tickets in advance. Easy entry upon arrival! :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the grounds and enclosures. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Flight Demonstrations
Amphitheater
Witness majestic raptors soar up close during captivating flight demonstrations. A truly awe-inspiring experience!
Spectacled Owl
Aviary
Meet a young Spectacled Owl and watch its transformation into its stunning adult plumage. Adorable and vocal!
Burrowing Owl Tunnel
Amphitheater
See how Burrowing Owls behave in their natural habitat through an impressive tunnel structure. Fascinating and educational!
Diverse Raptor Collection
Enclosures
Encounter a wide array of raptors, from bald eagles to harpy eagles, each with unique adaptations. Learn about their conservation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Know Your Location
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time and secure your spot by purchasing tickets in advance. Easy entry upon arrival! :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the grounds and enclosures. :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Check Flight Demo Times
Arrive early for the flight demonstrations; they are a highlight and rotate through different birds. :clock1:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring water bottles. Some indoor areas are air-conditioned. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time and secure your spot by purchasing tickets in advance. Easy entry upon arrival! :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the grounds and enclosures. :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Check Flight Demo Times
Arrive early for the flight demonstrations; they are a highlight and rotate through different birds. :clock1:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring water bottles. Some indoor areas are air-conditioned. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera or phone to photograph these magnificent birds. Many are visible up close! :camerawithflash:
📚 Ask the Staff
The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Don't hesitate to ask questions! :question:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Center for Birds of Prey for its up-close encounters with a diverse range of raptors and the incredibly knowledgeable and friendly staff. The flight demonstrations are a major highlight, offering an exciting and educational experience for all ages. While the focus is on conservation, the facility provides a well-rounded and enjoyable day out.
"Great experience. The two flying demos allowed us to be so close to 8 birds from all over the world. The burrowing owl demo in particular was very impressive. They had a tunnel structure built into the amphitheater that showed off how they behave in their natural habitat.
My family spent an hour walking the grounds and seeing the unreleasable birds they have on display. I have not seen this variety of birds at any other facility. AThe staff were very knowledgeable and eager to answer any questions we had.
I highly recommend visiting the Center for Birds of Prey to anyone, whether they are a bird enthusiast or a family that just wants to learn something new. All proceeds go to supporting the Center and the medical and rehabilitation facility that is associated with it."
Melanie Johnson
"A great experience for families. A great variety of birds, including hawks, owls, vultures, and the crowd favorite bald eagles. There were signs detailing the names at each of the enclosures. The benches provided an opportunity to eat and relax , and there was plenty of grass for the kids to run freely. There was also a small outdoor shop selling shirts and other nice trinkets."
Leonard Johnson
"What an amazing day! Up close experiences with birds of prey and incredibly knowledgeable and friendly staff.
We spent the entire day here, and weren’t bored once. The work this company does is absolutely amazing, and their love for birds was apparent."
Maxwell Salinger
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Center for Birds of Prey is located in Awendaw, about a 30-minute drive northeast of downtown Charleston, SC. It's easily accessible by car via Highway 17. Parking is available on-site. 
Public transportation options to Awendaw are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the Center for Birds of Prey.
Take Highway 17 North from Charleston towards Awendaw. The Center is well-signposted along the route.
Yes, it's located in the Lowcountry region, making it a great addition to a day exploring Charleston or nearby coastal areas.
Yes, using GPS with the address 'Center for Birds of Prey, Awendaw, SC' will guide you directly to the location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Center is typically open to the public on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media for the most current information.
Admission fees vary, and all proceeds support the Center's conservation and rehabilitation efforts. It's recommended to purchase tickets online in advance for a smoother experience.
While online booking is encouraged, it's advisable to check if tickets are available for purchase at the entrance on your visit day.
Information on discounts for specific groups (e.g., seniors, children, military) is usually available on their website. It's best to check directly with the Center.
Admission typically includes access to the grounds, enclosures, and flight demonstrations. The exact inclusions can be found on their ticketing page.
🎫 🦅 Onsite Experience
The flight demonstrations are a major highlight, featuring various raptors flying close to the audience. They showcase the birds' natural behaviors and adaptations.
You can see a diverse collection of birds of prey, including owls, hawks, eagles (like bald eagles and harpy eagles), and vultures.
Yes, the demonstrations and enclosures allow for close-up views of the birds. The staff are also very engaging and informative.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic educational experience for families, with plenty of space for kids to explore and learn.
The Center has restrooms, a gift shop selling merchandise, and benches for resting. Some indoor areas are air-conditioned.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed. Many visitors capture stunning shots of the birds during demonstrations and while exploring the enclosures.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. The flight demonstrations provide dynamic opportunities to capture birds in motion.
While generally permitted, it's always good practice to be respectful of the birds and other visitors. Avoid using flash photography directly at the birds during demonstrations.
You can get close-up portraits of various raptors, action shots during flight demos, and scenic views of the aviaries.
Tripod usage might be restricted during crowded demonstrations to ensure clear pathways for all visitors. Check with staff on-site for specific guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and water, and be prepared for walking. The open grounds provide space for children to move, and the demonstrations are engaging enough to hold their attention. It's a memorable outing that combines fun with learning about wildlife conservation.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your best lens and be ready for close-ups. While flash photography is generally discouraged during demonstrations, the natural light and proximity to the birds make for excellent photographic subjects.
🌿 Nature & Conservation Lovers
+1Learn about rehabilitation efforts, breeding programs, and the importance of protecting these apex predators. Your visit directly supports these crucial conservation initiatives.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Peregrine Fund's Mission
+1This center plays a crucial role in breeding and rehabilitating birds of prey. They house a remarkable collection of raptors, many of which are unreleasable due to injuries or other factors. By visiting, you directly contribute to their vital mission of protecting these magnificent creatures for future generations.
From iconic bald eagles to the powerful harpy eagle, the diversity of species is astounding. The staff's passion for conservation is evident, making the experience both educational and inspiring. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the importance of avian conservation.
+1Experiencing the Flight Demonstrations
Visitors often rave about how close they get to the birds during these demonstrations. The amphitheater setup, with its unique tunnel for the burrowing owl, provides an immersive experience that showcases the birds' natural behaviors in a safe and engaging way. The staff are excellent at explaining the adaptations and roles of each species.
It's recommended to arrive a bit early for the demonstrations to secure good seats and fully appreciate the spectacle. The rotating schedule means you might see different birds each time, adding to the excitement of a return visit.
+1A Family-Friendly Educational Outing
The grounds offer ample space for kids to move around, and the enclosures are designed to be informative. Signs detail each bird's name and species, sparking curiosity and questions. The knowledgeable staff are patient and happy to answer even the most inquisitive young minds, making it a valuable learning opportunity.
Beyond the birds themselves, the Center's gift shop offers souvenirs, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, allowing families to spend a full day exploring and learning together.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit