Working for Hershey Entertainment & Resorts has its benefits. When I worked there in 2005, I had a free overnight stay at The Hotel Hershey, a beautiful, historical luxury resort. A lot changed in the four years, from the office building where Central Reservations is located to the different packages and experiences guests can have with their stays. My lovely manager, Michelle, made it possible for me to take part in The Falconry Experience, which is something new offered through The Hotel Hershey and Zoo America. What made it even better? Dan and his camera came along!
Very few resorts in the northeast have programs where guests can interact with birds of prey; in fact, the Hotel Hershey is the only resort in Pennsylvania that offers this option. Jack Hubley, a master falconer who works with Zoo America and does an animal-related segment on our local news, leads the program. He provides a background on the history of falconry–which is over 4,000 years old and likely began in Asia–and how it works as a method for hunting. Birds of prey don’t love their masters like a hound dog; they love meat. Guests meet the birds, too, which is both exciting and a bit sad. There are several Harris hawks, a peregrine falcon and a golden eagle caged and eager to demonstrate their hunting skills. The birds aren’t mistreated by any means, though. While they may not love their master, the master falconer does regard the birds with a great deal of respect.