Pittsburgh’s National Aviary is one of its most exciting attractions. As the largest aviary in the United States, and the only one to be awarded its distinguished “National” status by the US Congress, it is home to more than 600 birds from around 200 different species. These include many rare and unusual delights, making it a unique destination.
The National Aviary is divided into distinct galleries where birds live in environments that are designed to resemble their natural habitats. Make your way to the Tropical Rainforest, where you’ll see brightly coloured parrots and lorikeets flying freely between the branches. In the Wetlands, you can find American flamingos and Brown pelicans wading through the tall grasses looking for food, whilst the Grasslands are home to the finches, doves and sparrows found in this habitat around the world.
Birds of prey are hugely popular with visitors – marvel at the three-metre wingspans on show in Condor Court, or visit the symbol of America, the bald eagle, in Eagle Hall.
One of the biggest attractions here is feeding time. Almost all of the birds are fed in public, so you’ll have an unprecedented opportunity to watch the birds doing what they love best. Youngsters will love the Lories & Friends exhibit – take a cup of nectar and watch the flock of rainbow lorikeets will swoop down to take a sip. Or head to Penguin Point to watch African Penguins dive for their supper, with views above and below the water to ensure you don’t miss a flap!
The Helen M. Schmidt FliteZone Theater hosts daily free-flight shows where the elegance and speed of some of the aviary’s inhabitants are demonstrated. Extra tickets must be purchased for these shows.
The National Aviary is located in West Park, in north Pittsburgh. The aviary is open daily, except for some public holidays, and there is a charge for entry. Paid parking is available nearby.
