Welcome to VINS
The Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) is a nonprofit, member-supported, environmental education, research, and avian rehabilitation organization headquartered at the VINS Nature Center in Quechee, Vermont. Open year-round, the 47-acre campus features state-of-the-art raptor enclosures, exhibit spaces, classrooms, and interpretive nature trails. VINS places a priority on bringing high-quality, compelling, and engaging education programs to people at the Nature Center, in the community, and in schools throughout the region.
Sport of Kings Day
SEPTEMBER 22 – Lords and Ladies all are invited to celebrate the Sport of Kings—Falconry! Experience the history, language, and traditions of this 3000-year old practice of hunting alongside a trained raptor.
Birds in Winter Stamps
SEPTEMBER 22 – The U.S. Postal Service celebrates four of winter’s winged beauties with the Birds in Winter Forever stamps. The stamps feature the black-capped chickadee (Poecile atricapillus), the northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), the blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata) and the red-bellied woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus).
en Plein Air Painting Festival
SEPT 29 – OCT 5: Join us to paint in celebration of the remarkable beauty and diversity of the Ottauquechee River watershed ecosystem, its vibrant human and natural communities, and the important message of conservation of the natural world.