Events
Join us throughout the year for special events
Click HERE to see additional, exclusive member-only programs.
Red-crowned crane (Grus japonensis)
Wear your costume and Trick or Treat through our Aviaries! Explore the Conservancy as you collect your Halloween treats throughout the grounds!
TRICK OR TWEET
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28th - 3:00PM - 6:00 PM
FREE for all | Refreshments provided | Registration encouraged but not required
GUEST SPEAKER TALK
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1ST - 10:30AM
Join Sharon Audubon Center Naturalist, Bethany Sheffer, in an exploration of the American Kestrel, its population declines, and what scientists are learning about how we can support this bird in Northwest Connecticut and beyond. The Sharon Audubon Center is working closely with local partners (including Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy) to increase local populations of this native falcon via nestbox placement and policy wins.
Visit Ripley to learn about one of the smallest falcon species in North America!
$10/Non-member (ages 13 & up) | $5/Non-member (ages 5-12) | Free for members & kids under 5
Join us this winter for an evening of owls! Take a walk down Duck Pond Road in search of native owl species, learn about their adaptations and meet our owls here at the Conservancy, Poppy & Camo. Enjoy a campfire and learn all about the amazing nocturnal species!
OWL PROWL SERIES
SELECT FRIDAY’S: DECEMBER-MARCH 6PM-8PM
First Owl Prowl of the Season:
Friday, December 19th
$15/members | $20/non-members | $5 Children (12 & under)
Limited to 30 participants | Dates are subject to change pending weather
Join Ripley in celebrating the second annual World Waterfowl Day! This free event is open to the public, enjoy the Conservancy during the beauty of winter all while learning about our amazing waterfowl and their crucial environments!
WORLD WATERFOWL DAY
JANUARY 17TH 10AM-2PM
Open for self-guided tours: 10:00AM-2:00PM
Enrichment with the Aviculturists: 11AM & 1PM
Treat your Valentine to a unique experience! Take a private tour around the Conservancy, learn about the amazing courtship displays and witness our birds in their most extravagant plumage! Enjoy spiced cider by the fire and the most delicious chocolates from Thorncrest Farm.
DUCKS IN LOVE
FEBRUARY 13TH-16TH
Private Tours: Friday, February 13th; Saturday, February 14th; Sunday, February 15th; Monday, February 16th
Ripley Signature Events-Save the Date!
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Duck Day 2026
Sunday, May 3rd 2026
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Annual Benefit 2026
Saturday, June 20th 2026
