Winter Events

This winter we are offering many cozy things to do! We are offering things from workshops, owl prowls and other fun events!

Guided Tours

Although we are currently closed for self-guided tours, we will be offering Guided Tours, weather-permitting, throughout the winter. The weather may be dismal, but our waterfowl are in their full regalia of brilliant, breeding plumage in the months of January, February, and March. A private, Guided Tour of the Ripley Conservancy is a fabulous way to introduce your friends and family to our incredible collection of waterfowl. Led by one of our experienced aviculturists, your group will be introduced to many of the most colorful and interesting birds in the world while learning about the Conservancy’s history and how we’re working to conserve waterfowl and wetland habitats through research, education and conservation action.  

Guided Tours are offered for a $50 fee plus an additional $10 per individual for up to ten people. 
Call the Office at: 860-567-2062 for available dates and to book your Guided Tour. ​

"Focus on Waterfowl" Photography Workshop
​POSTPONED: DATE TO BE ANNOUNCED

Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy will be holding their first ever "Focus on Waterfowl" Photography Workshop led by Richard Provost, for photographers interested in capturing our numerous exotic and endangered waterfowl in photos. This workshop is for photographers of all levels, as well as all types of cameras. While DSLR mirrorless, and adjustable compact cameras will offer the greatest opportunity for capturing good photos, any type of camera, including cell phones and point and shoot, may be used. 

Your day will begin with a short introduction on how to set up your camera to ensure the best shots at various photographic locations on our grounds. If you are using cameras that can be adjusted, all you need to know is how to set your f stop (lens opening), shutter speed, and ISO. If you are using a phone or point and shoot camera, no adjustments are necessary. 

Clothing: We’ll be shooting in the winter, so dressing in warm layers is highly recommended. Wear a hat, gloves, warm socks and shoes. It is also a good idea to bring several packets of hand-warmers to keep in your gloves or coat pocket to offset the problem of cold, stiff hands. 

Workshop will be rescheduled.
Please check back for updates or Join Our Mailing List below to receive updates. 
Workshop Cost: $40 for Members, $50 Non-Members  
Please call the Ripley Office at: 860-567-2062 to register! 

Richard Provost is the founder and former Chairman of the Classical Guitar Department at the Hartt School, University of Hartford. As an avid photographer, he has taken classes in Photography at the Hartford Art School, University of Hartford and workshops with renowned photographers: John Paul Caponigro, Mads Peter Iverson, Joseph Rossbach, Joe Reardon, and Kurt Budlinger. In addition, his photos were selected for exhibition at the Mystic Museum of Art and the West Hartford Art League. Since retirement, Mr. Provost has concentrated on further developing his photography skills and knowledge. ​

Watch here for New Spring Events and 2022 Grand Opening information!