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.
*Please Note: The McKnight Trail and a portion of the Lingelbach Trail are currently closed due to the construction of the Forest Canopy Walk, which will be completed in the Fall of 2019.
Forest Fairy Hunts
AUGUST 3 – Where do milkweed pods become bathtubs and beds, and acorns caps become dinnerware? In Fairy Town at VINS, of course! Building fairy houses with natural materials and trekking through the VINS forest while hunting for fairies offers children and their families a unique opportunity to connect with the natural world and to nurture respect for the environment.
Behind-the-Scenes Tour
AUGUST 4 – On this exclusive behind-the-scenes experience you will discover the steps it takes to rehabilitate and release hundreds of wild birds. Meet some of our current patients, the rehabbers that take care of them, and hear a story of one of our permanent residence education raptors.
Sport of Kings Day
August 10 – 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.