Did You Know? Terranea Resort Has Birds of Prey
Situated on 102 acres that overlook the Pacific Ocean in Rancho Palos Verdes, Terranea Resort is a spectacular coastal property that features 582 guestrooms and suites, including spacious bungalows, casitas and villas. Terranea’s coastal setting offers incredible views throughout the property, from the lobby and outdoor gardens to private terraces and inviting courtyards with outdoor fireplaces.
The skies above Terranea are clear and free of pesky seagulls, thanks to a non-lethal birds of prey program introduced by Aerial Solutions, a bird control service. As a result of the eco-friendly abatement program, the oceanfront resort is rid of a large, indigenous seagull population, while the majestic birds of prey - aka raptors - have become a popular and unique attraction at the luxury resort. Terranea’s program includes falcons, Harris hawks and Eurasian eagle owls.
The falconers typically fly the falcons and hawks, while the owl only has to make an appearance to have the desired effect of scaring off certain birds. The birds fly at different times each day to help prevent a “routine” from being established. Other birds - especially crows - are very smart, therefore the falconer uses changing flight times and locations to help with the abatement.
The raptor program has been part of Terranea Resort since its opening in 2009. “Matt Morreau was the founder of Aerial Solutions, and it was his dedication to education and commitment to growing the art of falconry that really created a ‘teachable moment’ versus traditional bird abatement,” says Marissa Edwards, the Director of All Things Fun at Terranea. “His philosophy of being hands-on with our guests and bringing the art of falconry to life really helped define Aerial Solutions' recreation programs as fun with a purpose. Matt’s partners and master falconers, Scott Timmons and Joe Roy work hard to continue that tradition and expand the learning opportunities with guests, the local community and everyone interested.”
Thursday through Sunday, the falconers and a variety of their birds of prey are at Terranea’s Pointe Discovery activity center at 11:00am. The resort's expert team of falconers teaches guests about the natural history of the birds of prey, the important role they play in the environment and at Terranea, the ecological benefits of falconry, and how the birds are fed and launched. Guests can also schedule private tours with the falconer for a more in-depth experience.
Pointe Discovery is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and is located on Terranea's main drive. Call 310.265.2851 for more information and reservations. To learn more about the falconry program and other unique Pointe Discovery activities, visit www.terranea.com.
