Nature
Talks + Tours

Life Among the Raptors

When

Fri, Jul 18, 2025 8:00PM – 10:00PM

Where

Meet at Wave Hill House

Price

$40, including admission to the grounds. Wave Hill Members save 10%

Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a wildlife rehabilitator? Join Christine Peyreigne of Christine’s Critters, Inc. as she shares the challenges, successes, and inspiring recoveries of the birds her team has helped return to the wild. The program begins with a captivating photo journey offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at real-life rescue and rehabilitation efforts. You’ll also have the chance to meet live owls, hawks, and falcons up close and hear their amazing rescue stories, all told by someone who devotes her life to saving them. This interactive experience will leave you with a deeper appreciation for these incredible creatures, the hard work involved in protecting them, and how we can all contribute to their conservation.

Complete your evening with a Nighttime Nature Walk through the shadowy gardens as lightning bugs, crickets, and katydids fill the air with a natural sound and light show. Local naturalist Journei Bimwala guides your way along woodland edges and open lawns where nocturnal creatures abound.

8:00–9:00PM Indoor presentation and Q&A
9:00–9:45PM Nighttime Nature Walk

Participants not joining the walk must exit the grounds once the presentation has concluded. Severe weather cancels the walk.

Advance registration is encouraged online or by calling 718.549.3200 x251. Day-of registration based on availability and not guaranteed. Ages 12 and older welcome with an adult. Sorry, kids under 12 are not permitted at these late-night events.

The Café, Shop, Gallery and Wave Hill House remain open to all visitors until 7:30PM. Grounds close at 8PM. Ticketed programs begin at 8PM.

Nighttime Nature Walks follow a route along mixed-material pathways with varying elevations. A limited number of walking sticks will be available to borrow. Pace varies from a slow to moderate walk. Artificial light will be limited for a more immersive experience; please bring a flashlight or be prepared to use your cellphone flashlight for additional illumination as needed.

Christine Peyreigne

Christine Peyreigne

Christine Peyreigne is a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, falconer, and educator who has dedicated her life to rescuing and protecting birds of prey. Her journey began at just 16 years old when she became Connecticut’s youngest licensed falconer. Immersed in the world of birds of prey, Christine quickly recognized the urgent need for raptor rehabilitation and conservation educational outreach. In 2015, she founded Christine’s Critters, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured birds of prey. Since its founding, Christine’s Critters has rescued and rehabilitated thousands of injured birds of prey, working tirelessly to return as many as possible to the wild. For those who can’t survive on their own, the organization provides a permanent home, caring for 23 non-releasable ambassador raptors including hawks, owls, falcons, eagles, and osprey. These animals now serve as wildlife ambassadors, helping to educate thousands of helping to educate thousands of people each year about conservation and the importance of protecting our natural world.
Melissa Weaver

Melissa Weaver

Melissa Weaver (she/her) is a dedicated naturalist and environmental educator with a passion for fostering sustainable communities and nurturing connections between people and the natural world. With hands-on experience in urban agriculture and pollinator conservation, she served as a Beekeeping Teaching Assistant at Brooklyn Grange, where she educated others on the vital role of bees and sustainable farming practices. As a former Campus Garden Manager during her collegiate years, Melissa cultivated not only thriving culinary green spaces but also a sense of shared stewardship among her peers. An avid outdoors enthusiast and Eagle Scout, Melissa is driven by the belief that meaningful change begins with inspiration. She is eager to share her knowledge, empower others, and continue her work in protecting and celebrating the natural world.