For thousands of years, birds of prey have gripped the human imagination. They have been revered as divine messengers, prized as hunting companions, celebrated as symbols of power, and reviled as scavengers and killers. The world of these amazing birds is explored in "Hunters of the Sky," the newest special exhibit at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh. It opened Saturday, March 10.

"Hunters" takes a closer look at birds of prey, or "raptors" -- eagles, hawks, falcons, owls and vultures -- and helps visitors understand them as diverse, charismatic, biologically complex animals. In addition to more than 70 museum-traditional bird mounts, the exhibit includes several interactive portions, including bird's-eye-view video footage shot from gliders, a demonstration about the physics of flight, and a "hooting" booth that lets listeners hear and attempt to mimic owl calls. "Hunters" also presents information about controversial bird extinction and preservation issues, but allows visitors to make up their own minds about the debates and to share their opinions through computerized "polling booths."

Special programming will accompany the exhibit during its 11-week stay.

n Saturday, March 24, at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. -- The N.C. Falconry Guild presents "The Sport of Falconry," which highlights the history, equipment and technique of this fascinating sport, as well as live birds.

n Friday, May 4, from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, May 5, at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. -- The Carolina Raptor Center will bring live birds from its rehabilitation center in Charlotte.

"Hunters of the Sky" runs through Monday, May 28. Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for seniors (60+) and students, and $2 for Children 5-11. For more information, call 919-733-7450 or visit www.naturalsciences.org. The exhibit comes from the Science Museum of Minnesota and was created in collaboration with The Raptor Center at the University of Minnesota.?