Tamarack Wildlife Center Programs
We are currently booking programs for 2026
Tamarack offers live animal programs to school classes, scouts, preschools, clubs, summer camps, college classes, nursing homes, libraries, business meetings, and festivals. We tailor every program to the group’s needs. For schools, we adjust for grade level and address state academic standards in environment, ecology, and science. Available ambassador animals currently include a box turtle, rat snake, opossum, owls, hawk, and falcons. Requests for specific animals may be made, but cannot be guaranteed.
For the safety and comfort of our wildlife and staff, we cannot accept program requests that are more than a 1.5-hour drive from our Saegertown facility.
Click here to meet our Educational Ambassadors
Available Traveling Programs
We are currently booking programs for 2026.
Wings of Wonder: Pennsylvania Birds of Prey
K-12, adults
Get up close and personal with some of Pennsylvania’s magnificent birds of prey including a live falcon, hawk, and owl. Learn about these birds’ characteristic features, discover their adaptations and natural history, and explore their critical role in our environment. Find out what you can do to help birds of prey and the world we share.
Feathered Friends
Pre-K, K-2
Even the youngest learners are entranced by live birds. This program introduces them to the similarities and differences between birds and other living creatures and explores what we all need to survive. By meeting a variety of live birds of prey, young people learn how birds of prey are unique and important in our environment.
Wings, Scales, and Tails
K-12, adults
Meet ambassadors from three different animal classifications: bird, reptile, and mammal. Learn the differences between these classifications and what adaptations they have that make them special. This program features 2 ambassador raptors, 1-2 reptiles (Box Turtle and/or Rat Snake), and an Opossum.
*Please note: Our current ambassador Opossum is in her "golden years." She will continue to do programs as long as she is healthy and happy participating. We cannot guarantee her presence if this program is booked several months in advance.
All About Owls
K-12, adults
Meet some mysterious feathered hunters of the night! Learn whether the myths about owls are true. Staff will bring live owls to share, and you will learn about their fascinating adaptations for nighttime. A variety of teaching tools, including feathers, wings, talons, and recorded owl calls are used to support this unique learning experience.
Raptor Ecology
Middle School, High School, Adults
Based on state standards for Environment and Ecology, this dynamic program uses live birds of prey to explore human impact on the environment. In addition to learning raptor biology and natural history, students explore the impact of DDT and the success story of the peregrine falcon and what bird science is teaching us about environmental change. These issues are linked to each species presented. This memorable program can be modified to meet teachers' specific learning objectives upon request.
Traveling Live Program Pricing
We are currently booking programs for 2026.
All group program pricing includes a program of up to 60 minutes with 3-5 live animals and an education specialist. Programs for:
- 1-50 people for $125
- 51-99 people for $175
- 100+ people for $250
- 3-4 hour Booth Program for $325
Speaking Engagements for organizations or groups (no live animals):
- 30 minutes for $50
Additional Charges & Discounts
- A mileage charge applies to all off-site programs. This charge is calculated using the current federal mileage reimbursement rate (68 cents/mile in 2026) for the round trip from our center.
- Programs that fall on weekends, evenings, or holidays are $25 additional.
- Additional consecutive programs on the same day, at the same location, are $10 off.
Onsite Group Programs
This option is great for Scout groups, Homeschool groups, college courses, or single classrooms. Tour our facility and meet 2-4 ambassadors during your visit. Onsite 60-minute programs are available for up to 30 people at $125.
Private Onsite Small Group Tours
This option is perfect for families! Come see where we care for our wildlife patients, learn about wildlife rehabilitation, and have an up-close encounter with our ambassador animals! Tours will take visitors through our examination and lab spaces, past our outdoor ambassador aviaries, and into our education building. Tours will last between 45-60 minutes and must be scheduled at least a week in advance.
- 8 people maximum - $100 donation
Virtual Programs
We offer virtual programs that are flexible to meet your needs. Whether you’re looking for a fun interactive activity for your family and friends, planning a virtual educational program for your organization, or looking for an exciting guest appearance during your next corporate meeting, Tamarack has an option for you!
Each program will feature 1-2 Tamarack wildlife ambassadors and provide an opportunity to learn about their personalities, natural histories, and unique adaptations. We are happy to tailor the program specifically to your needs and interests.
- 30 minute presentation - $50 donation
*Groups/organizations/corporations are responsible for any necessary arrangements with participants and will provide Tamarack Wildlife Center with an invitation link to join the virtual meeting.
Scheduling
We are currently booking programs for 2026.
To schedule a travelling program, onsite group program, onsite tour, or virtual program, email our Outreach and Education Manager Melissa Goodwill: melissa@tamarackwildlife.org.
For the safety and comfort of our wildlife and staff, we cannot accept program requests that are more than a 1.5-hour drive from our Saegertown facility.