If getting up close and personal with live raptors sounds like a fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon, then mark your calendar and set your GPS for 29 West Avenue in Essex on February 19. The Connecticut River Museum will host Live Birds of Prey from 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm at Essex Town Hall. The show, presented by Horizon Wings, a non-profit wildlife rehabilitation center specializing in birds of prey, will introduce the audience to a red-tailed hawk, a peregrine falcon, an American kestral and a barn owl while telling their individual stories of survival and conservation. With funding support from the Essex Garden Club and Potapaug Audubon Society, the program is free to the public but seating is limited and is on a first-come, first-seated basis.

For those looking for an on-water adventure and a chance to see majestic bald eagles in their winter habitat, the Connecticut River Museum is also offering eagle-viewing boat tours on Fridays at 1:00 pm and Saturdays and Sundays at 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. now through March 11. Project Oceanology’s 65-foot vessel Enviro-lab III departs from the Museum’s dock for an up-close view of winter wildlife and big birds of prey. Museum educators provide narration while passengers can enjoy viewing from the heated cabin or outside deck area. Complimentary coffee and use of binoculars provided. Every boat tour ticket includes free admission to the Museum where the story of the Bald Eagle continues to unfold in the Eagles of Essex exhibit.

For a full listing of event details, go to www.ctrivermuseum.org or call 860-767-8269. The Connecticut River Museum is located on the Essex waterfront at 67 Main Street.