When I was in primary school, somewhere around first or second grade, our class went to The National Aviary in Pittsburgh. Field trips were something to be desired as a child and now, as a grown-up, I yearn to take my husband to all the places that were special to me and the Aviary is definitely on that list. We decided to go the weekend of September 26th to the Aviary and we both were very excited. My youngest brother John [who’s 16 years younger than me], accompanied us, as he had never gone to the Aviary. I was surprised that he hadn't visited on a field trip; I felt like our teachers did a great job of getting us out of the classroom as youngsters to explore, dream, and discover. We parked on the street and passed the Condor exhibit as we made our way into the Aviary. 

The National Aviary, located in West Park in Pittsburgh’s historic North Side, is America’s only independent indoor, nonprofit zoo that’s dedicated only to birds. A diverse collection of over 500 birds representing 150 species from all over the world, many of them endangered or threatened, are housed here.

We were greeted by a woman named Caitlin, who’s been working at the Aviary for 10 years and serves as an Educator. Caitlin said she started as an intern working with the bird show presentations and exhibits. I asked what most of the people have in terms of a degree, and she said most people have a range of degrees from biology, zoology, wildlife management, and even psychology. The Aviary offers internship options, including: Flitezone Bird Show and Conservation Education, Marketing & Communication, and an Avian Hospital Internship. Students can intern in several different departments including Animal Programs, Marketing, Horticulture, and more. Caitlin was very hospitable and gave us an exclusive tour throughout the exhibits of the Aviary and told us the history of this unique place. 

The National Aviary opened in 1952 as the Pittsburgh Aviary Conservatory. In the early 90s, neighborhood leaders founded Save the Aviary, Inc., a public campaign to raise money to privatize the Aviary. In 1993, by declaration of the U.S. Congress, the Pittsburgh Aviary was designated honorary national status and was renamed the National Aviary. 

According to the website, [the National Aviary] is ‘composed of educators, conservationists and researchers and aims to provide outstanding education programming for varied audiences; present the highest quality family recreational experience that a zoological institution can offer; save endangered species by preserving natural habitats; continue endangered bird breeding programs and conduct meaningful avian research; engender a sincere appreciation of nature and a respect for natural law; and instill a conservation ethic that teaches our immense responsibility as stewards of the planet.’ 

After learning a little about the history of the Aviary, we ventured into the Tropical Rainforest exhibit, which is one of three free-flight areas in the National Aviary. The free-flight exhibits allow visitors an unparalleled view into habits and behaviors of the birds living freely within the exhibit. The Tropical Rainforest exhibit is the oldest portion of the Aviary and has over 80 birds, many of which came from Africa and Asia. Benito, a Hyacinth Macau, was perched on a thick branch and playing with a walnut. We watched as he cracked open the nut quite easily with his beak. He was entertaining to watch a long with many of the other birds that were swooping from one side to the other as if putting on a special show for us. Tropical forests are some of the most complex and diverse ecosystems in the world. They are located around the equator and receive at least 60 inches of rainfall a year. They are home to half of our planet’s living species, an estimated two to five million species of plants and animals. Many of the products we consume and use comes from a tropical forest, including: fruits, chocolate, coffee, cinnamon, cashews and even medicine that helps to fight disease. Unfortunately, tropical forests are in danger with at least half of them destroyed for lumber, cattle ranching and poor farming practices. The tropical forests that remain cover only six percent of the Earth’s surface and the demand for the resources that rainforests offer continues to rise as our human population grows. 

We had some time before the Tropical Forest feeding so we continued on to the Canary’s Call exhibit. Caitlin told us as we came upon an elaborate cage with live canaries that the birds were used in coal mines to warn miners of dangerous toxic fumes. In November 2013, this particular exhibit marked the Aviary’s first-ever museum-style venture with storytelling that feature interpretive displays to enhance the stories that the birds are telling about changes in our natural world. Five key areas of human impact and their habitats were highlighted that include: population, pollution, habitat loss, invasive species, and over consumption. 

One of the most exciting parts of the exhibit was the Malayan Flying Foxes, which are giant fruit bats from Asia. Caitlin explained that there are only two species of mammals at the Aviary: bats and the two-toed sloth. They were hanging from the custom built tree that was designed in their exhibit and were sleeping, upside down. I personally find bats adorable so I thoroughly enjoyed watching them—I certainly have never seen such a large bat before—with wingspans of six feet! The exhibit also had two touch screen kiosks with an interactive game that reinforces the key points in the exhibit. 

We looked at the Rhinoceros Hornbills, native to Indonesia at the end of the exhibit. Caitlin explained that in the wild, these birds will choose a hollow log, seal up the entrance and stay there for 90 days. She pointed to a faux-log that serves a similar purpose and explained that it’s been 10 years since any eggs were hatched so it’d be very exciting to have some hornbill youngsters flying around. 

One of the rarest birds in the world are the Guam King Fishers. Because of snakes, many of these birds were eaten, and with only 200 species left, they are near extinction in the wild. They are only found on the island of Guam, so efforts were made to help these birds in preservation. 

We turned a corner and I saw this gorgeous painting of the wall and Caitlin told me that if I like that, then I’ll really enjoy the Wings & Wildlife Art Show coming November 8 and 9 that will feature over 40 artists who make paintings, jewelry, ceramics, wood, photography and more around the birds or wildlife-themed. 

We went back through the Tropical Forest exhibit and past the Atrium to an outside exhibit called Penguin Point, home to 18 African penguins. This open-air exhibit provides guests with a 360-degree perspective of the African penguin, transporting visitors to the shores of South Africa. Six of the 18 penguins were hatched at the Aviary. In the wild, these animals live between eight and 10 years; but in captivity in zoos, they can live between 20-30 years! These penguins are considered endangered in the wild so it’s a treat to be able to see them up close like this! Through the wheelchair accessible Kids ViewTube, guests can watch the birds’ aquatic antics as they “fly” through the water of the acrylic-fronted pool. In time, the National Aviary hopes to breed select members of the penguin group as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) African Penguin Species Survival Plan, a carefully monitored breeding program that seeks to preserve healthy, genetically diverse populations of African penguins. You can watch these adorable penguins on Penguin Cam here: http://aviary.org/penguin-cam 

We continued our tour to Eagle Hall, where Bateleur Eagles and Steller’s Sea Eagles were housed. Bateleur Eagles are one of the smallest eagle species in the world and are native to Africa. They can hunt for prey as small as termites to as large as an antelope. The Steller’s Sea Eagles are one of the largest eagle species with a wingspan of six and a half to eight feet. They are native to eastern Russia, northern Japan, and as far south as Korea. Steller’s are comfortable in a wide range of temperatures, living in climates with cool summers and winters that reach lows of -30! 

The National Aviary’s Grasslands exhibit allows guests to enter a natural world inhabited by cheerful finches, doves, plover, and other species native to grassland areas around the world. The exhibit’s plantscape comprises sea oats, bayberry, birch, and dogwood as well as other greenery. Caitlin pointed to one of her favorite birds in this exhibit, the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher. A fun-fact about this bird: it is sometimes called the Texas Bird of Paradise. The Paradise Whydah birds were really lovely. Their vibrant colors of red, orange and black paired with their unique tails that looked like a long veil of feathers, offered a swooping flying demonstration for all of us. They were so entertaining. 

We moved on to the Wetlands exhibit, another one of the three free-flight areas of the Aviary. This room featured American Flamingos, Brown Pelicans, and Roseate Spoonbills. Wetlands occur naturally on every continent except Antarctica and play an important role in water purification, flood control, and shoreline stability. They are also the most biologically diverse of all ecosystems. The water found in wetlands can be saltwater, freshwater, or brackish. Subsets of wetlands include swamps, marshes, and bogs. There are 120 birds in this exhibit. Right out of this exhibit is the SkyDeck (which is open in the summer). 

The National Aviary features Summer Camps for all ages! Campers have access to the Aviary’s world-class exhibits and many behind-the-scenes spaces not accessible to the public. Children and teens can interact with their favorite birds, like penguins, toucans, and parrots. Not only does the Aviary have Summer Camps, but they also have Holiday Camps and Scout Programs, too. You can spend the holidays with the African Penguins! Help prepare breakfast for the National Aviary’s colony of penguins, attend a private feeding, and learn what makes these endangered birds so special. Camp includes a close-up encounter and an original masterpiece painted by one of the penguins. For more information on these programs held at the National Aviary, contact the Education Program Coordinator at 412-258-9439 or via email at Education.Programs[at]Aviary.org

Our tour with Caitlin was really informational—I was amazed at all the facts and things she knew. With tickets to the FliteZone Theatre, we said our goodbyes and thanks. Before the doors of the theatre opened, I saw one of my favorite birds: the Burrowed Owl. These tiny owls’ alternate name is Athene, an alternative spelling of the Athena, the Greek Goddess of wisdom and courage. Athena’s symbol is an owl. I am easily entertained by these adorable birds, which nest underground and are fairly active during the day—unlike other owls. In the FliteZone Theatre, they had demonstrations with parrots that competed with each other on a little ropes course, and several other birds. They showed us a video about how to preserve the resources of our planet and the Aviary’s role in conservation efforts. 

In fact, there’s ongoing National Aviary Research happening in parts of Ecuador and the Dominican Republic that varies by the staff. Field research and professional development are strong programs at the Aviary. When we left the theatre, we were given little pamphlets on Seafood Watch—suggestions that help preserve seafood in oceans, rivers, and lakes. We were encouraged to buy locally, recycle, and use minimal water and electricity to preserve the resources of our planet.

We turned a corner and we saw a crowd a people with their families and then I stopped dead in my tracks—I saw the most beautiful owl and her name was X [from Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood!]. She was perched on the demonstrator’s arm, which had a glove to protect his arm from being scratched by her strong talons. She was constantly looking around at other people and nipping at his bag on his ride side because it had food in it. I thought it was so cute she had little babies named Pumpkin and Tootsie. I believe one of them is at the San Diego Zoo now. 

After the great encounter with X the Owl, we reflected upon this incredible place. My husband (who majored in Biology in college) has always wanted to work with animals and commented to me that he could see himself working in a place like this [he owns his own construction business so I doubt he’ll be making any career changes again anytime soon]. We were really taken with this place and being around the wildlife and the beautiful paintings and the friendly staff—it was such an enjoyable outing! 

When we went into the gift shop by the west entrance, I was taken back to my primary school days when I came here on a field trip. Nothing looked familiar to me until I came in here and walked around the outside of the entrance. I learned that there are many educational opportunities for young children and teens besides or in addition to field trips. Special Outreach Programs like the Showcase of Birds Traveling Performance, Falcons in Flight Outdoor Show, and the Aviary After School Program Package are great ways to inspire students outside of the classroom. These interactive programs are available as classroom or assembly programs at your school, library, or event. 

For adults who are ultra-inspired by birds, planning a private or corporate event like a wedding, birthday party, etc. - all at the Aviary! Guests will cherish an evening spent amidst the blossoming rose garden, peering at the stars through the glass-domed Atrium, or strolling through free-flight exhibits mingling with fine, feathered friends [i.e., the birds!]. Special packages for parties and catering as well as special encounters with the birds are all included in the cost. Special event and facility rental information and scheduling can be done through Ms. Lauren Keiser: 412-258-9436 or via email: Lauren.Keiser[at]aviary.org 

Plan your visit to the National Aviary!

Here’s some information you’ll need to know: 
Address: Allegheny Commons West, 700 Arch Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Phone: 412-323-7235
Website: http://www.aviary.org/

Hours and Admission Information: 
General Admission: Adult-$14; Child-$12; Senior-$13
General Admission plus Show: Adult-$19; Child-$17; Senior-$18
All Day Pass (show + Lorikeet Feeding): Adult-$20; Child-$18; Senior-$19

The National Aviary Encounters and Experiences offer one-of-a-kind opportunities to get even closer to the birds plus five different options for interactive feedings: Tropical Forest, Wetlands, Lorikeet, Penguin and Bat feedings, as well other fun options, like being a Trainer for a Day and  having a VIP experience. 

Dining: Atria’s Kookaburra Kitchen has a wide variety of homemade soups and fresh salads as well as daily specials and sandwiches. 

Shopping: The Gift Shop offers nature-themed gifts, art work, books, toys, and clothing for all ages. Looking for a creative gift for yourself or a loved one? The Adopt-a-Bird program might fit your needs!

Interested in being a Donor? The Donor Society is an exclusive group of donors and was created for people who want to experience the beauty of birds and possess a fascination with wildlife and the natural world. 

Membership Packages: 
Families [2 adults plus children under 18]-$85
Family Premium [family membership plus 4-one-time use guest passes plus 4,-one time use tickets to see any bird shows]-$125
Adult Add on [add any third adult]-$20
Individual-$50
Dual-$65
Senior [60+]-$40
National Aviary and Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh Joint Membership-$190 
National Aviary members receive FREE or DISCOUNTED ADMISSION to more than 300 accredited Association of Zoos & Aquariums] and botanical gardens. You can view a listing of AZAs here.
For more information contact: Ms. Tiffany Early, 412-258-9444

Seasonal events like Owl-o-Ween are other wonderful ways to spend time at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh! Wear your costume and come prepared for candy, crafts, and even a creepy crawly bug station. Enjoy close encounters and photo opportunities with raptors, owls, and other creatures of the night. 

Follow the National Aviary on all social media platforms: 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalAviary/ 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/National_Aviary 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/nationalaviary 
 

Stasia Lopez is the Global Education Editor for Wandering Educators and is also a Career Consultant at the University of Pittsburgh. She graduated with her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Western Michigan University and earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Robert Morris University. Stasia is passionate about international education, travel,  and loves working on a college campus. She’s lived in four different U.S. states (Florida, Michigan, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania) and also studied and lived abroad in Rome, Italy. Stasia lives in the Pittsburgh area with her husband, Fernando.

All photos courtesy and copyright Stasia Lopez