Experiences on the ranch

Hands-On Animal Experiences, Homeschool Tours & Field Trips

Hands-on, up-close time with the whole crew, plus fun and games. Brush the coos and feed them Coo Candy, gather eggs in the Hen Den, meet Mortoise and learn how we care for every animal. Homeschool groups can book educational tours, and schools, scouts and clubs can book field trips that make learning about animals and ranch life hands-on.

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This is the heart of Redtail Ridge Ranch: real, up-close time with the animals who live here. Kids and grown-ups alike get to brush Ferguson and Poppy, hand out scoops of Coo Candy, gather eggs in the Hen Den and say hello to Mortoise the sulcata tortoise.

Every visit is private and guided by a member of our family, so the pace fits your group. Little ones can take their time getting comfortable, and curious minds can ask all the questions they like about how we care for each animal.

Homeschool groups can book educational tours, and schools, scouts and clubs can book field trips. Along with the animals, there is plenty of time for fun and games around the ranch.

Private hands-on experiences last 1 hour. Homeschool tours and field trips last 2 hours, with time for learning, games and a picnic.

Highlights

What makes it special

Meet the Highland coos

Brush Ferguson and Poppy, learn about their shaggy double coats and the "dossan" bangs that shield their eyes, and feed them their favorite treat, Coo Candy.

Gather eggs in the Hen Den

Visit our heritage flock, help collect the day’s eggs and see how each breed lays its own color, from sky blue to dark chocolate.

Say hello to Mortoise

Meet our sulcata tortoise and learn how one of the largest tortoise species on Earth lives, eats and grows.

Fun and games

Games, crafts and room to roam make the visit as much fun as it is educational.

Homeschool tours & field trips

2-hour visits
Hands-on lessons about animal care, feeding and ranch life
A guided visit with the coos, the hens and Mortoise
Time for games and a picnic (bring your own food & drink)
Welcoming homeschool groups, co-ops, schools, scouts and clubs

What to expect

01
Send a request with your preferred date, group size and the ages of your kids.
02
We confirm the details and answer any questions.
03
Arrive in closed-toe shoes, ready to get a little dusty.
04
Meet the animals with a family member as your guide, then enjoy games and a picnic if you like.

Good to know

Private hands-on experiences are 1 hour; homeschool tours and field trips are 2 hours
Closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get dusty are a must
Bring your own food and drink if you would like to picnic
Only feed the animals the Coo Candy and treats we provide
Fresh eggs are for sale whenever the hens have laid enough
Please leave pets at home

Photo gallery

See it for yourself

Tap any photo to see it full size.

Open the full album in Google Photos

Questions

Good questions

See all FAQs

Are the animals safe for small children?

Yes. Ferguson, Poppy, the hens and Mortoise are all gentle and used to visitors. A family member supervises every animal interaction, and we will show little ones the best way to say hello.

Can homeschool co-ops or classes book together?

Yes. Homeschool groups, co-ops, schools, scouts and clubs are all welcome. Mention your group and the kids’ ages in your request so we can plan the tour.

How long is a visit?

Private hands-on animal experiences last 1 hour. Homeschool educational tours and field trips last 2 hours.

How many people can come?

Tell us your group size in your request. We will make sure everyone gets plenty of time with the animals and suggest the best plan for your group.

Ready to plan your visit?

Every visit is private and by appointment. We reply within a day or two.

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