On a recent trip to Charlotte, NC to see the Body World exhibition at the local science museum I took the 20 minute drive up to the Carolina Raptor center. The center rehabilitates birds of prey that have been injured with the hopes of returning them to the wild but the birds that cannot be returned are kept at the site and cared for in zoo-like aviaries. The center affords the visitor an opportunity to learn about the birds and see them up close in a way that wouldn't be possible in the wild. There are several types of falcons, owls, vultures and a family of bald eagles. The tour around the grounds takes about an hour and there are hourly presentations by volunteers that are geared primarily for children but are fun for adults too. Definitely worth the trip.