The Aviary & Scales & Tales
Aviary: Birds of a Feather...
Preserving and protecting our wildlife are important to Rocky Gap Resort. Our guests can visit the Maryland Park Service Aviary located near the lodge. Children of all ages, from 9 to 90, will enjoy seeing captive birds of prey up close and personal. Some of our Aviary guests include:
- Red-Tailed Hawk
- Eastern Screech Owl
- Barn Owl
- Black Vulture
- Great Horned Owl
- Barred Owl
Virtual Tours
- Click here for a virtual tour of the Aviary
Scales & Tales Program: Learn About Wildlife
Scales & Tales, an environmental education program of the Maryland Park Service, affords people the opportunity to see live wildlife native to Maryland, up close and personal. This informative and entertaining program uses live non-releasable birds of prey and reptiles to promote stewardship of our wildlife and other natural resources. Through the stories, or "tales" of how these animals came into the care of the program, Scales & Tales naturalists discuss very important environmental issues, such as loss of habitat, environmental pollution, resource management and biodiversity.
Some of the programs include the following:
- ANIMAL SENSE - Elementary
Children can explore how raptors and reptiles use their extraordinary senses to survive in the wild. Children will have the opportunity to see live animals up close and personal! 1 hour, $100.00. - SCALES AND TALL TALES - Elementary
Packed full of tales, fables, and live raptors and reptiles! Learn the folklore of these animals and the real tales of how each was brought to our care. 1 hour, $100.00. - THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE UGLY - Secondary
Reptiles and birds demonstrate how we often judge an animal's value by the way it looks. Learn that what is fact and what is fiction. Live animals will help to set the record straight. 1 hour, $100.00. - SILENT HUNTERS - All age groups
Prepare for an in-depth look at raptors as we explore their natural history, conservation topics, and why they are considered the best hunters in the night sky. 1 hour, $100.00. - REPTILE RANGERS - All age groups
These scaly creatures will captivate you as we share myths, truths, and benefits of these often misunderstood animals. 30 minutes, $25.00. - CRITTER ENCOUNTER - All age groups
Great for picnics, reunions and campers alike! A naturalist will give you a close encounter, double dose of raptors and reptiles. 30 minutes, $25.00.
HIKES
- AVIARY OUTING - All age groups
Join the naturalist on a hike to the aviary to meet the Scales & Tales animals. Learn the tales of these wildlife ambassadors and how your efforts can help make a difference. 30 minutes, $25.00. - OWL PROWL - All age groups
This nighttime hike is sure to please adventure seekers of all ages. Join the naturalist on a search for our nocturnal feathered friends. 1 hour, $50.00.
DISPLAY
- WILDLIFE ON DISPLAY - All age groups
Create an inspiring and educational experience with birds of prey and reptiles in a natural setting. $100.00/hour, 2 hour maximum.
For information about a Scales & Tales Program, contact the Activity Desk at 301-784-8403 or the Rocky Gap State Park Aviary at (301) 722-1493.
