City: Huntersville, NC

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (704) 875-6521

Address: 6000 Sample Rd.

Description: This unusual educational conservation and rehabilitation facility north of Charlotte fascinates children with close-up encounters with hawks, owls, eagles, falcons, ospreys, and vultures. The birds come to the center injured or orphaned, and are released back to the wild if possible. Others live here as teaching tools for youngsters to learn about habitats and hunting methods, adaptations, life in the wild, endangerment, and the respect birds of prey have in different cultures. Programs include behind-the-scenes tours, wildlife photography, and festivals with hay rides, science shows, crafts, and storytelling.Presentations with live birds take place three times on Sat (11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m.) and twice on Sun (1 and 3 p.m.), weather permitting. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Mon through Sat, noon to 5 p.m. Sun. The center is closed Mon and Tues during winter. Admission is $8 adults, $7 seniors, $6 students, free under age 5. Group rates also available.