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Atlas Obscura
Benefiting Priceless Planet Coalition
Observe owls up close in the mountains of Utah with Atlas Obscura
Track North America's most secretive owl species with an avian biologist on a private getaway
The Experience
Gather the bird lovers in your life and head to the mountains of northern Utah on a private research expedition to study the secretive and pocket-sized flammulated owl. Work alongside avian biologist, Dr. Markus Mika, on this four-day, three-night itinerary as you search for active nest sites and add data to their study. Recover from your outings in the mountains in your private accommodations, where you can kick back and relax in comfort and style. This package also includes a US$1,500 Mastercard gift card to be used for round-trip flights. Exclusively for Mastercard cardholders.
What's priceless
Hearing the call of a rare owl on a scientific expedition with your favorite folks.
The highlights
- Join an avian biologist on a guided research expedition to study the flammulated owl
- Explore a scenic mountain area as you look for nest sites and record data
- Relax and unwind with private accommodations, a rental car, and a US$1,500 Mastercard gift card to dedicate to round-trip flights
Details
- Offer is exclusive to Mastercard cardholders
- By clicking Start Your Bid, you agree to our Terms and Conditions (see Terms & Conditions link below)
- Proceeds from sales to US residents will support Conservation International, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that empowers societies to responsibly and sustainably care for nature, our global biodiversity, for the well-being of humanity.
- Auction winner will receive:
- 3 nights of private accommodation in Ogden, Utah
- 4-day car rental to be picked up and dropped off by participants at the Salt Lake City airport
- Expert guide, Dr. Markus Mika and a research assistant to guide daily excursions
- 1 headlamp per participant
- Global Rescue medical evacuation insurance for each participant
- Mastercard gift card in the amount of US US$1,500 intended to be used for flights for the experience.
- Mastercard gift card will be shipped via USPS within 5 business days of auction close and will take approximately 5 days to arrive
- Experience is available for booking during the months of June or July 2021 or 2022 only (flammulated owl nesting season)
- Winning bid includes any applicable taxes
- Auction winner will receive a follow-up email from support@pricelessus.zendesk.com within 2 business days of auction close about scheduling the experience
- Experience will be scheduled on a mutually-agreeable date and time, based on partner's availability; flexibility in scheduling is advised
- In the event of unforseen circumstances with partner's schedules, experiences may have to be canceled or rescheduled
- Blackout dates may apply, including holidays
- Experience is for up to 4 guests and will be 4 days and 3 nights long
- Experience must be booked at least 5 weeks in advance
- Experience is recommended for participants ages 14 and up; children must be accompanied by an adult
- To allow for a smooth booking process, guests are strongly urged to arrange for refundable airfare and accommodations when travel is required
- Exclusions: Transportation to and from Ogden, Utah (guests must book flights on their own), food and drink, travel insurance
- Activity level: Guests should be comfortable hiking 4–5 miles per day on steep, uneven terrain. Guests should wear sturdy hiking boots and protective clothing. Participants should also be prepared to spend time in the forest after dark with headlamps and flashlights.
- Experience includes private accommodation for 4 guests and will include a minimum of 2 bedrooms, 2 beds, 1 bathroom, and a kitchen.
- Elevation: Ogden, Utah, stands at 4,300 feet in elevation; please consult a medical professional for advice if you're sensitive to altitude
- This item may not be resold or re-auctioned in any circumstance
- This item is sold as-is
- All auction bids are final and non-retractable
- Participants should consult with their individual tax adviser regarding the proper tax treatment of their bids
- Experience is provided in English
- Mastercard is the platform provider and does not earn any fees from the sale
- Auction Tips and FAQs
Fine Print
- Must follow required COVID-19 protocols
- Waiver and/or release may be required prior to attending
- Suggested to wear mask and maintain social distancing when attending
- Mandatory quarantine may apply to those traveling across borders to participate; please check local travel regulations
