Life Underground Encounter
THIS FALL ONLY!
Daily, except Tuesdays at 1:30 pm
Members: $48.60 per person
Non-Members: $54 per person
Includes General Admission
Ages 6+
*Available now – Fri., January 2, 2026
YOU’LL DIG THIS: Join us “down the rabbit hole” as we uncover the hidden world that bustles beneath our feet! From the surprisingly deep tunnels crafted by a Four-toed Hedgehog to the expert foraging of a Southern Three-banded Armadillo, these captivating critters will show you how they are known as some of nature’s original underground tenants!
Book a Life Underground Encounter
- Unearth the many reasons why animals burrow and enjoy Life Underground…from carving out a cozy nap spot, to escaping predators…alongside an Aviary expert.
- Meet one of our two Southern Three-banded Armadillos, Willy or Wonka!
- Watch as one of these handsome fellows taps into their natural curiosity to explore their surroundings and forage using their strong sense of smell.
- Get the opportunity to spoon-feed Willy or Wonka a few of their favorite treats!*
- Learn about an armadillo’s armor and ability to roll into a ball, two unique adaptions that protect from predators.
- Say hello to a quill-y cute Four-toed Hedgehog!
- Watch as Doris forages through a naturalistic, custom-made portable habitat as an Aviary expert highlights the species’ importance to a biodiverse ecosystem.
- Learn about both of these notoriously nocturnal critters and discover how your Encounter plays a crucial role in our conservation efforts around the world.
- Guests are encouraged to take photos or videos and ask questions.
Additional Information
- This unique experience is designed for those ages 6 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.
- Touching Policy: Please note, touching the Southern Three-banded Armadillo and Four-toed Hedgehog during a Life Underground Encounter is strictly prohibited.
- At the National Aviary, we give our animals the choice to participate in interactive experiences with caring guests like you! If our Animal Ambassador needs a day of rest, we will contact you to reschedule your Encounter, as the comfort and safety of our animals and our guests is always our top priority. Thank you for understanding!
*Similar to other Animal Ambassadors at the Aviary (and many humans!), Doris, Willy, and Wonka prefer their personal space, so please do not touch. An Aviary expert will demonstrate how to feed the armadillo during the Encounter!
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.