• Animal Encounters and Programs
• Animal Encounters
• Flamingo Feeding Encounter

Flamingo Feeding Encounter

THIS SUMMER ONLY!!!

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday* at 10:30 am
Members: $89.10 per person
Non-Members: $99 per person
Includes General Admission
Ages 12+
*Available May 23 – September 7

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND: Get ready, get set, flamin-GO to the National Aviary to mingle with some of our MOST ICONIC residents: American Flamingoes!

This is the only opportunity to hand-feed flamingoes at an AZA-accredited facility in Western Pennsylvania: Get nose-to-beak with this inquisitive flock as you offer a delicious snack to everyone’s favorite pink-hued birds.

Book Flamingo Feeding Encounter

• Learn the key differences between various flamingo species while exploring biofacts alongside an Aviary expert.
• Navigate through the lush vegetation of the National Aviary’s Wetlands habitat and venture to the shores of our beach (comfortable seats provided)!
• Be greeted by a friendly flamingo…or two! Flamingoes are naturally curious birds, and members of our flock may strut right up, gently nudge, or even preen you.
• Enjoy a front-row seat to their iconic honking, one-legged resting pose, and incredible wading abilities.
• With the guidance of our expert aviculturists*, you’ll hand-feed our flamingoes a snack and learn all about their unique, filter-feeding method of chowing down.
• As you feed our flock, you’ll learn all about flamingoes in the wild and the importance of wetlands habitat conservation.
• The best part? You’ll see more than just American Flamingoes on our Wetlands beach! A Brown Pelican may be swimming by while a Boat-billed Heron or Inca Tern perches in a tree above you!
• Guests are encouraged to take photos or videos and to ask questions.

_{*An aviculturist is a National Aviary expert who provides daily care for our American Flamingoes}

Additional Information

• This unique experience is designed for those ages 12 and up.
  • All children 17 and under must have their release forms signed by a parent or legal guardian.
  • Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by another encounter participant over the age of 18.
• Animal Encounters are non-refundable. Requests to reschedule must be made a minimum of 7 days in advance, based upon availability.
• Book before you visit to guarantee your experience. Same-day registration is based on limited program availability and cannot be guaranteed.  
• Entering the Wetlands habitat: Access to the Flamingo Feeding Encounter area involves descending a small ramp and walking over uneven terrain. You will be seated in the Wetlands during the Encounter. Seats are portable chairs with a capacity of 250 lbs.
• Attire: Sturdy, closed-toed shoes and socks are required.
• Interacting with our Flamingoes: We ask that guests walk slowly and carefully, as our flamingoes and other Wetlands residents will be in the habitat with you.
  • Flamingoes are filter feeders, meaning they turn their heads upside down to filter out their food from the water. Because of this, you may get splashed!
• Personal Items: No bags or coats are permitted on the Wetlands beach. We will store your items that cannot be taken into the habitat with you. The National Aviary is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
  • Cell phones are permitted in the habitat; however, the ability to use such devices in the Wetlands during the Feeding will be left up to the discretion of the National Aviary staff member overseeing the Encounter. National Aviary staff are not able to take photos using a participant’s device.
• The Flamingo Feeding Encounter is the ultimate chance to get close to American Flamingoes. It is designed for a maximum of two individuals; perfect for a couple, two friends, or even an individual feeder! Please note: when booking individually, another individual may also reserve the same time slot and be seated near you. 
• Please Note: At the National Aviary, we give our animals the choice to participate in interactive experiences with caring guests, like you! As the comfort and safety of our animals and our guests is always our top priority, animals may choose not to participate on any given day. In the event the animal needs a day of rest or chooses not to participate, we will happily reschedule your experience.

Questions? Email [email protected] or call 412-258-9445.

^{Proceeds from Animal Encounters support the National Aviary’s work to save birds and protect their habitats.}