Conservation

Conservation

The National Aviary works to save birds and protect habitats around the world. The Department of Conservation and Field Research studies human impacts on birds and the environment and develops targeted programs to protect biodiversity. Our national and international conservation and field research projects span a range of topics and perspectives, from classical ecological research, to applied conservation, to more traditional zoo-based reintroduction activities. Our projects are founded on the belief that field research, conservation, and education are linked, and are best done in concert.

  • Conservation Projects

    The National Aviary conducts conservation research programs in the United States, Mariana Islands, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, and the Caribbean Basin. Learn more about our work to save birds and protect habitats at home and abroad.

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  • Conservation Stories

    Meet the birds we work to save, and the people who are making an impact on avian conservation worldwide.

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  • Saving Species

    Through collaborative Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) and Species Survival Plans®, we can help ensure healthy populations for threatened species.

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  • Lights Out

    This fall, you can help protect birds during their migratory journey!

    Find Out How!
  • Community Science

    Community science projects bring conservation and scientific inquiry to the backyards of people around southwestern Pennsylvania, and beyond.

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  • FlightPaths

    Read news from the National Aviary's Department of Conservation and Field Research.

    FlightPaths
  • Meet Our Research Team

    The National Aviary is committed to educating, training, and mentoring the next generation of conservation leaders, and oversees a team of Research Associates and Student Researchers.

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  • Green Team

    The National Aviary’s Green Team is a committee that furthers these efforts through the community education via various programming that reaches students, families, and animal lovers alike.

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In The News

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Discover Unique Nests and Meet the Bird Species who Craft them during Nesting in Nature this Winter and Spring, ONLY at the National Aviary!  | National Aviary

Brand-new Daily Activities included with admission will bring you face to face with intricately designed nests and the breath-taking “artists” behind them.  

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National Aviary is a leader in helping African penguins starving to death in South Africa | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Pittsburgh’s National Aviary has ramped up its efforts to save the critically endangered African penguin, a charismatic species that is a popular draw atthe North Side destination.

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National Aviary’s ‘Jingle Bell Flock’ show brings high-flying holiday cheer | TribLive

The National Aviary on the North Side is getting into the festive spirit, starting the day after Thanksgiving with its new “Jingle Bell Flock” immersive show.

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55-plus holiday season events for kids in the Pittsburgh area | Kidsburgh

Glowing light shows, magical theatrical productions and the best music of the season are just a small part of the lineup.

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A penguin waddles into the PTL studio! | Pittsburgh Today Live

The National Aviary paid a visit to the PTL studios, and they brought Ella the African Penguin with them to tell Mikey and David about the work they're doing to protect the flightless birds.

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