This fall, Mia and the whole Menagerie crew had the privilege of visiting the Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS)—a place that holds a special spot in our hearts. As frequent visitors and proud members, our family has always admired VINS for its incredible work in wildlife conservation and education. This visit, however, was something truly special.
With cameras rolling, Mia dove into the wild world of birds of prey. From Peregrine Falcons that can outfly sports cars to Great Horned Owls with talons like iron grips, every moment was filled with awe. Many of these majestic raptors came to VINS after being injured and now live here as ambassadors, teaching visitors about the delicate balance of nature and the importance of protecting it.
Guided by Anna, VINS’ Director of the Wildlife Ambassador Program, Mia explored every corner of the center, discovering fascinating facts about hawks, owls, vultures, and even songbirds. A personal highlight? Learning that a Blue Jay’s “blue” feathers are actually an illusion caused by their unique structure!
Beyond the raptors, Mia experienced the towering canopy walk and the serene nature trails that make VINS such a unique destination. This visit wasn’t just about filming—it was about connecting with nature in a way that inspires curiosity, learning, and respect for the wild.
Behind the Scenes
This episode was truly a team effort! Timothy, Mia’s dad, took the lead as producer, camera operator, and editor, with Elliot Thompson adding his artistry on the second camera and gimbal, and Shaun Merryman ensuring top-notch audio with his mix. Seeing everyone come together to support Mia’s adventure was as rewarding as the adventure itself.
A special thank you to VINS and especially Anna for opening their doors to our family and crew. Anna has been a fantastic guide, sharing her expertise and enthusiasm with Mia while helping us capture the magic of this special place. I have personally worked with VINS in the past on various consulting projects and even rehomed an Eastern Box Turtle, “Jersey,” to VINS back in 2017—who is still thriving at VINS today! She even has a cameo in the video.
Supporting a Vital Mission
VINS does incredible work not only in rehabilitating injured birds but also in educating the public about wildlife and conservation. If you’re inspired by what you see, there are so many ways to help: sponsor a raptor, donate, or become a member. Every little bit supports the birds and their mission to protect our natural world. https://vinsweb.org/donate
Watch Our VINS Adventure!
This visit was filled with moments we couldn’t wait to share. You can watch the full video of Mia’s wild adventure on our YouTube channel, where she takes you behind the scenes at VINS and introduces you to their amazing wildlife ambassadors.
Thank you for supporting Mia’s Menagerie and joining us on this journey to explore, learn, and inspire others to care for the world around them. We can’t wait to bring you along on our next adventure—stay curious!
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