The tough guys of the bird world returned to the remodeled Wings of Wonder exhibit just in time for Dallas Roars! Birds of prey, scavengers, and other predatory birds have gotten a rugged reputation because they are meat-eaters, but they are living a comfortable life in their luxurious new homes.

The new exhibits are taller, wider, and deeper. Big tree stumps and cedar perches were added along with landscaping, water features, and rock structures. Their shelters were renovated and now provide a higher place to roost. Heat also was added.

“The aesthetic changes are very nice for people to see,” said Chris Brown, curator of birds. “But the birds will be very pleased with the structural differences such as the taller shelters for roosting and the new perches.”

Most of the Wings of Wonder residents eat meat including rodents, carrion, and insects, while other residents that share space with the meat-eaters consume nuts, berries, and seeds. Even though they share common traits, these birds are very different.

“Many people find the birds of prey and other Wings of Wonder residents very interesting, even if they do not normally connect with birds,” said Chuck Siegel, deputy director of animal management. “The eagles, vultures, and condors have interesting faces and really large wingspans, so they are easy for people to see.”

Wings of Wonder residents include the following:

• Spectacled owls

• Black-billed magpie

• Harpy eagle

• Ornate hawk-eagles

• African white-backed vulture

• King vultures

• Andean condor

• Bald eagles

• Red-legged seriemas

• Ocellated turkeys

• Red-crowned cranes