We didn’t have much time at Seal Bay (see previous post). It was absolutely worth the speedy jaunt out and back, but we couldn’t dawdle. Brittany had booked us an appointment at the Raptor Domain for a private encounter with some of their most impressive residents.

First our guide took us out to a field to watch a wedge-tailed eagle in flight.

Then she took us over to the arena and handed us heavy leather falconry gloves to put on, so we could get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures.

I couldn’t tell you whether this (above) is a Lesser Sooty or a Greater Sooty Owl, but I can tell you it was gorgeous and serene. And the birds just kept coming, not even counting all the other small birds that swooped by to visit while we were there.

I’m so glad Brittany booked this. It was amazing to hold these birds, especially the massive wedge-tailed eagle, and I LOVED seeing Brittany non-stop smiling.

After rushing to fit in all we could in our one full day on Kangaroo Island, it was an hour of peace and joy and admiration–even awe– that we were able to observe these living beauties so closely. There’s a reason the words rapt, rapture and raptor share the same root.

Wishing you experiences and encounters that leave you rapt!

I’ve been a bit paralyzed by all the photos I want to share with you, but I guess there’s no rule that says Kangaroo Island can have only one post. There was a lot to see, and not just kangaroos. The first evening we discovered this just a few minutes from our rental.

Here’s how we got there. Lots of roads like this on the island.

The next morning we headed out to Admirals Arch at the far southwest tip of Kangaroo Island. The lookout point itself was closed for repairs, but the views were still pretty spectacular.

Plus, we saw lots of seals, I think fur seals, to be specific, but I’m not an expert.

Then we stopped at Remarkable Rocks, an enormous granite outcropping dramatically shaped by erosion.

After lunch, we raced out to Seal Bay before our appointment at the Raptor Domain, which I’ll have to save for the next post.

If I’ve understood correctly, fur seals are often found on rocks (see above) and sea lions on the sand. Also fur seals have more of a bear face and sea lions a pointier dog face. Anyway, here are a few cute critters we saw at Seal Bay, whatever they are.

So Kangaroo Island did not disappoint, and we did also see actual kangaroos, in the wild and this rescued orphan joey.

One of the things I loved about all the wildlife and even the glorious views, was the way I had to slow down so as not to frighten a nearby animal or to get the best photo possible. We were packing so much into each day, it would have been easy to be on non-stop hyper-drive, but I would have missed so much.

In the midst of All The Things going on, I’m praying that you and I both find moments of quiet contemplation, moments to breathe and offer a word of gratitude, as we soak in the wonders around us.

Grace and peace to you!