Since 1972, the Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) has been a leader in environmental education and wildlife conservation and care. The Institute is a natural wonderland, situated on 47 acres of forest, meadow, and rolling hills that feature nature trails, state-of-the-art raptor enclosures, songbird aviaries, classrooms, and research facilities. It is also nationally renowned for its innovative natural science curricula and relevant education programs for learners of all ages.

VINS’ mission is to motivate individuals and communities to care for the environment, instilling in them a desire to respect the wildlife and the diverse natural habitats they encounter in their daily lives. To nurture our collective appreciation for nature and raise awareness of the urgent need to protect it, VINS partners with leading conservation organizations to promote environmental science field research and operates New England’s premier avian wildlife rehabilitation clinic.