ORIGIN:
S. Dillon Ripley, Professor of Ornithology at Yale, was the first to propagate in captivity many threatened and endangered species of birds. In 1985 he and his wife donated the property that supported this effort, allowing it to be a non-profit bird conservatory.
LOCATION:
The conservation center is located on an unpaved road that is just a few minutes away from Route 202.
CONCEPT:
Ripley's continues Dillon Ripley's legacy by supporting bird conservation and education initiatives.
EXPERIENCE:
Periodic educational events are offered at Ripley's. I enjoyed a mid-winter "owl prowl", led by one of the center's aviculturists. I learned about the sounds, behavior, and appearance of three types of owls that can be found in North West Connecticut. Most memorable, I got to see a screech owl several different times as we walked along the road.
TIP:
Upcoming events and tickets can be found on the center's website. read more