Santa gets new pals at Glen Ellyn open house

Elves, reindeer and the occasional magically animated snowman are Santa's usual companions.

But the folks at Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn are setting up Santa with some new pals this weekend.

Willowbrook's third annual Talons & Claus Holiday Open House features Santa along with educational presentations involving several of the animal-care facility's birds of prey.

"Mainly the event is about getting our public here to visit Santa," education site manager Sandy Fejt said. "But then we have several of our raptors out for viewing and education talks, too."

The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the center, 525 S. Park Blvd.

Youngsters can have their picture taken with Santa, do some holiday shopping at the gift shop and then tour the facility to learn about some of the center's injured birds. Owls, hawks and falcons will be on display.

Ron Skleney, a naturalist at the center, said the volunteers will choose which birds will be shown.

"It's an opportunity for families to have an informal encounter with our talented volunteers and our wonderful education birds," he said.

The raptors are on permanent display at the center because they were injured and cannot fly or be returned to nature.

"We were looking to do a special event for raptors here at Willowbrook and this seemed to be a good fit for the time," Fejt said. "What we'll do is have them stationed throughout the park so visitors will encounter them at stations as they tour."

The center is home to several injured raptors but only six will be taken out for show at the event.

Wagon rides, refreshments and crafts are also part of the program Saturday. Proceeds from the event will go into the center's animal care fund.

If you go

What: Talons & Claus Holiday Open House

When: 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6

Where: Willowbrook Wildlife Center, 525 S. Park Blvd., Glen Ellyn

Cost: Free

Info: (630) 942-6200