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!