Animals & Habitats

Animals & Habitats

The National Aviary is home to more than 500 birds and mammals representing species from around the world. Explore walk-through habitats where birds fly freely around you, and a sloth can be spotted in the trees. Get up close to a colony of adorable penguins, see mysterious owls, and be amazed by the impressive 10-foot wingspan of the Andean Condors.

As you spend time in each habitat, you’ll notice birds nesting, preening, singing, swimming, and interacting as they would in the wild. Watch our vibrant flamingos and parrots socializing, and meet rehabilitated eagles and pelicans who found a comfortable home that meets their every need at the National Aviary. Take time to discover more elusive species – some are Endangered or even Extinct in the Wild, and learn about the National Aviary’s role in saving birds and protecting their habitats.

Experiencing rare birds that we won’t get to see in their natural habitat!

National Aviary Visitor
  • Our Animals

    There are many birds (and other animals) to discover at the National Aviary. Learn a bit about each species and where you can find them during your next visit.

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  • Habitats

    The National Aviary was specially designed to mimic wild bird habitats that encourage natural and healthy bird behaviors while providing truly immersive interactions for our guests.

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  • Live Streams

    Catch a glimpse of a wild Peregrine Falcon nest through live streaming content each spring season.

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  • Avian Hospital

    The animals at the National Aviary receive the very best veterinary care. Learn about our team of experts and our state-of-the-art teaching hospital.

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In The News

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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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Why Animals in Cold Climates Are Bigger: The Science Behind Bergmann’s Rule (featuring an interview with Bob Mulvihill) | A-Z Animals

“Large animals can conserve heat more efficiently than smaller animals in cold climates,” explains Bob Mulvihill, Lead Ornithologist for the National Aviary.

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Penguins To Hold ‘Penguins Pledge Night’ Presented by U. S. Steel | Pittsburgh Penguins

The Penguins Pledge will also raise funds and call attention to the National Aviary in Pittsburgh and their conservation leadership with African Penguins.

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Record Number of Peregrine Falcons Counted in Allegheny County | National Today

Conservation efforts have helped the raptor species rebound in the region.

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Why Are There No Birds in My Birdhouse? I Asked Expert Bob Mulvihill Who Told Me How to Attract Birds to Any Birdhouse | Gardening Know How

To help ensure your birdhouses are as appealing to birds as possible, [we] asked a National Aviary Ornithologist Bob Mulvihill for the most common reasons why houses remain vacant and how to make houses more attractive to garden birds.

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