Trip and events
P3 Outing to Rambouillet
by Luella Goethals
Despite the early start to the morning, the children chatted excitedly on the coach. The journey lasted one hour and the warm sun greeted us as we stepped off the coach and entered the “Espace Rambouillet”.
As our group walked silently through the trees, off the track, we were fortunate to spot Does and Bucks. At one moment, a Buck sighted our approach and stood up to ward us off. We retreated and returned to the path to later find the herd a little away from their feeding trough. The Rangers arrived in a jeep with the food. The herd only started to feed once we turned around to make our way back through the reserve. That’s when we caught sight of a single fawn, very still, watching us.
The highlight of the morning was witnessing hawks, eagles and owls in motion. The wing span, elegance and effortless flight of these birds of prey were spectacular. On many occasions, the birds flew low and swished close over our heads. We gasped when we felt the soft touch of their wings somewhere on our hair.
Tristan and Sandra were absolutely motionless when owls perched on their heads!
The guided visit of the cages immediately after this display also held our attention. Our guide, Nicolas, took out a baby eagle and an owlet from their boxes for us to see very close-up. The Guide had a tool-box with pellets, eggs, wings and talons that delighted the children.
Nicolas even walked into a cage to shoo a Snowy Owl onto a pole so that the children could comfortably draw the owl.
The tour ended with one of the girls contentedly showing the group a Barn Owl perched on her falconry glove. Debbie was just as delighted with presenting her Great Horned Owl.
A wonderful day leaving striking memories of these amazing birds.
Thank you Sandra, Debbie and Talia.
Dernière modification le 22-05-11 par
