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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Peregrine falcons on Pitt’s Cathedral of Learning lay first egg of season | CBS News

The National Aviary, which runs a livestream of the nest, said Carla laid the first egg around 4 a.m. on Wednesday. It's the first of up to six, though the average peregrine falcon clutch is four. 

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National Aviary’s star peregrine falcons welcome first egg of the season | WPXI

Carla and Ecco are featured on the aviary’s Peregrine FalconCam livestream, showing their nest high up on the southeast side of the Cathedral of Learning.

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50 family adventures across the USA as America celebrates its 250th anniversary | Times Entertainment

As the country gears up to celebrate its 250th anniversary, here are 50 family-friendly travel experiences across the United States.

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Going to the 2026 NFL Draft? Here are other places to check out | Beaver County Times

As the NFL Draft sweeps into downtown Pittsburgh, there is plenty for visitors to explore beyond the football-themed attractions.

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The Invisible Clues Animals Leave Behind Are Helping Save Entire Ecosystems (featuring an interview with Dr. Steve Latta) | A-Z Animals

In this article, we speak with Dr. Steven Latta, Director of Conservation and Field Research at The National Aviary. In his own work, he collects eDNA samples from water, leaf litter, feathers, egg shells, and other substrates to identify species presence.

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