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, including our new Forest Canopy Walk. 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.
Contact Us
Nature Center Hours
Accepting injured birds
8am to 4:30pm daily
802.359.5000 x212
What's Happening - Virtual Events
*Live videos will be available to watch after their live stream date.
Owl Festival
MAY 23 & 24 – Calling all owls and owl lovers! Gather with live owls from all over the world, discover their life stories, create adorable crafts, get your face painted and delight in delicious food.
NestWatch Training Workshop
MAY 23 – Come to VINS to learn about NestWatch, a citizen science project, and help study nesting birds in your own backyard in your free time! VINS is Vermont’s first official NestWatch Chapter, and we are excited to share with you the protocols and practice of monitoring nesting birds, so YOU can contribute to scientific knowledge.
Forest Canopy Walk – Summer Celebration
SAVE THE DATE! Join us for our spring/summer season kick-off on Saturday, June 13. Take a playful journey high into the trees to find unexpected gifts of a wild forest.
