About
While the title is a mouthful, The Peregrine Fund's World Center for Birds of Prey is a must-visit on a Boise vacation. Because its name is lengthy, locals abbreviate it to WCBP.
The story starts in 1970 when a group of falconers and scientists founded The Peregrine Fund to rescue the Peregrine Falcon, a bird of prey pushed to the brink of extinction. Their work paid off, and the Peregrine Falcon was removed from the U.S. Endangered Species List in 1999, one of the great conservation comebacks in American history. That success gave the organization confidence to think bigger.
Today the group works to protect more than 100 species across 65 countries. From the California Condor in the American West to the Aplomado Falcon along the southern border, its reach stretches far beyond Idaho.
The campus offers plenty to explore. Breeding facilities support some of the planet's most endangered raptors, giving these birds a fighting chance at recovery. The Archives of Falconry preserves the traditions behind the sport that helped launch the whole movement. Inside the Velma Morrison Interpretive Center, guests get hands-on with feathers, talons, and live birds. Docents stand ready to answer questions and introduce each raptor.
Step outside and explore trails that wind through the sagebrush steppe to the California Condors' enclosures. The trek blends education, wildlife, and open-air scenery into one memorable stop.
The center’s location makes it easy to combine multiple attractions into a fun-filled day of exploration. For instance, add the Old Idaho Penitentiary Site and Idaho Botanical Garden with a tour of WCBP.
After working up an appetite and thirst from a day of activities, you’re never far from a delicious meal. From the Fork, Bardenay Restaurant & Distillery, and Goldy’s Breakfast Bistro, there’s a cuisine and budget suitable for everyone.
Follow along in our next section to learn more about this incredible sanctuary.
The Peregrine Fund's World Center for Birds of Prey: Fun Facts & Cool Features
While the exhibits are extraordinary, there’s nothing like seeing these magnificent birds in person, or as they say on their website: “Get Nose-To-Beak With Birds of Prey!” You can experience this during one of the live bird presentations at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Trainers bring out a raptor and share about its characteristics, transforming a casual outing into a lifelong memory.
While on the topic of raptors, the seasonal Fall Flights gives you an outdoor experience you’ll remember forever. The ticketed, 45-minute event takes place in the amphitheater set in the sagebrush steppe. Experts on the education team offer insights, history, and stories as these birds of prey swoop, dive, and glide overhead.
The Archives of Falconry was founded in 1986 and holds the world's most complete collection of falconry art, literature, and material culture. The exhibit brings the sport's long history to life, from ancient traditions to the falconers who began WCPB.
The Inspiration Wall, completed in April 2023, is inside the new Welcome Center. This striking art piece maps the Peregrine Falcon's global range and reflects the organization's conservation work.
The California Condors might steal the show, as the center is home to the largest breeding flock you can see. Standing near one of North America's biggest birds will impress, with wingspans close to ten feet!
The Peregrine Fund's World Center for Birds of Prey packs education, wildlife, and outdoor beauty into one affordable stop. Visit for your very own “Get Nose-To-Beak With Birds of Prey!”
Local Tips
- Live bird presentations are at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m.
- The gift shop sells souvenirs and snacks, the proceeds of which help support the center.
- Buy tickets online in advance to skip the entrance line.
- Note that last admission is 4:15 p.m., so give yourself time to explore the trails.
