Children and adults can take a metaphorical flight with various birds during the third annual Raptor Fest at Elachee Nature Science Center in Gainesville.

The seasonal nature program features live bird and animal encounters giving children, families and nature lovers the chance to learn more about wild birds of prey. The event will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 18, at 2125 Elachee Drive in Gainesville.

Admission is $5 for those 2 years old and older. Elachee members may enter for free. Shuttles to and from designated parking areas are also free.

The program includes demonstrations with Buster Brown of Georgia Mountain Falconry and Winged Ambassadors; an eagle presentation with Eddie Elsberry, director of environmental compliance and sustainability at Berry College; a raptors of Georgia presentation with Jim Ozier of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources; and an owl presentation with Peter Gordon of Elachee Nature Science Center.

Other attractions during Raptor Fest are the center’s live bee exhibit, specially designed crafts and games, face-painting, birdwatching and scavenger hunts. Families also may stroll on the Storybook Trail or let children younger than 5 burn off energy in the Adventure Playscape.

Hot Dog Ninja will be on site with refreshments, or participants may buy snacks and beverages at the Nature Shop.

For more information, call 770-535-1976 or visit elachee@elachee.org.