Each of the birds of prey has a story, from the bald eagle that was rescued after injuring a wing to the barn owl, an endangered species in Ontario, that was bred in captivity. Their enclosures — three metres high by four metres deep — are designed with lots of perches, which are periodically moved around to keep the birds engaged.

Museum staff member Stuart Baatnes, who is taking the lead on the birds’ daily care, says he’s already discovered that there’s “a truly Zen factor that comes with working with the birds. They’re a very aware animal so you have to have to be calm when you interact.”

The 24-metre-long exhibition includes dozens of interpretive panels suitable for all ages, from the simple biographies of each raptor to more detailed information on the owls’ range, physical characteristics, and threats to their survival. Due to ongoing pandemic restrictions, there is no interpretive programming at this time.