When we paid our admission fee we were given a map with a list of scheduled shows and what times they would take place. It was just about time for the Otter Show so we followed our maps to the Autzen Otter Exhibit. Outside there is a pond and a mound of rocks and inside there is a glass window that shows a cross section of the pond above and below the water and another window shows the inside of the otter's den. It was feeding time. During feeding time the otter is a lively animal and loves to play.
As we walked to the next show on our schedule I thought I saw many animals among the bushes and trees but on closer inspection they were nicely executed life size sculptures of animals in their natural habitats. The Birds Of Prey Show was presented with displays showing how to identify hawks, eagles, falcons and other birds by the shape of their wings as they fly. Near this exhibit two live spotted owls are rehabilitating in cages along with many more birds.
We had a little time before the next show so we went to see the full scale saw mill, the mustang coral and the pioneer cabin that was ready to fully accommodate a homesteading family. The porcupine show was next. A twenty five pound porcupine was lured out of his den with food. A little chipmunk jumped in the dish and helped himself but the porcupine just sat there feeding himself with his paws.
Inside the main building there were exhibits that showed the effects reservation life has on the Indian, a miner's camp, an old west town and a bunk house. I was thrilled to see a genuine old stage coach. More exhibits show the cultures and traditions of the Plateau Indians. Then we walked through a tunnel in a gold mine. It felt like we were in a theme park about the high desert.
There is a lot more exhibits and a great gift shop with terrific information and wonderful gifts. The High Desert Museum is open 7 days a week from 9-5 and can be found south of Bend, OR on Highway 97. Admission prices are: adults $8.50; seniors and youths $7.50; children $4.