Conservation Projects

Conservation Projects

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. Projects are founded on the belief that field research, conservation, and education are fundamentally linked and are best done in concert.

Habitat Loss, Invasive Species, Pollution, Human Population, and Overharvesting (HIPPO) are the greatest threats to biodiversity. Learn more about these challenges and how YOU can help during your next National Aviary visit. Located in The Charity Randall Foundation Eagle Hall.

  • Ivory-billed Woodpecker

    The Ivory-billed Woodpecker is one of the most iconic birds in North America. Learn about the National Aviary's efforts to document this species.

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  • Forest GAP Project

    Recent work has shown that large, stand-replacement clear-cuts, often as large as 40 acres, provide important habitat areas for some bird species known as “early successional species.”

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  • High Andes Habitats

    The High Andes is one of the world's biodiversity treasures, but it is under-studied and at risk. Learn about our work to protect the diverse bird species in this region.

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  • Hispaniola

    Hispaniola is a hotspot for biodiversity, home to many endemic and migratory species, but its forests are rapidly disappearing. Learn how we are working to further conservation efforts on the island.

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  • Mariana Islands

    The unique birds of the Mariana Islands face a threat from an invasive species. Learn about the multi-faceted approach the National Aviary is taking to protect species.

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  • Neotropical Migratory Birds

    Neotropical birds are facing declining populations. Read about our efforts to study these indicator species and protect the habitats they rely on for wintering and breeding.

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  • North American Habitats

    In addition to our international conservation efforts, the National Aviary works to protect the future of North American birds and their habitats. From our work with Eastern Loggerhead Shrikes to groundbreaking research on forested areas throughout the region.

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  • Saving Animals From Extinction® Programs

    The National Aviary is identifying conservation strategies with partners around the globe to find comprehensive solutions to keep species safe.

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  • Species Survival Plan® Programs

    The National Aviary is proud to be part of the Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Programs for more than 80 species.

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  • Meet Our Team

    Meet the researchers, research assistants, and student researchers who work around the globe to save birds and protect their habitats.

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In The News

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For $5, you can help name National Aviary’s skunk sisters. How to vote | USA Today

Pittsburgh's two new skunk sisters are one step closer to getting their names, thanks to the internet.

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National Aviary close to naming sister skunks. See the finalist names. | USA Today Pets

Two skunk sisters at Pittsburgh's National Aviary are close to getting names after more than 18,000 public suggestions.

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National Aviary selects sets of names for skunk sister public vote | WPXI

The aviary’s animal care team has selected six names (three pairs) for the public to vote on in round two of the competition.

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Striped skunk sisters make their debut at National Aviary | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

When you think of animal ambassadors, giant pandas and bald eagles come to mind, but a skunk? The latest animal ambassador at the National Aviary is a sister pair of 4-month-old striped skunks from the Cincinnati Zoo.

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National Aviary selects 3 sets of names for new skunk sisters for public to vote on | WPXI

The aviary’s animal care team has selected six names (three pairs) for the public to vote on in round two of the competition. The names are Feta and Ricotta, Petunia and Daisy, and Poppy and Pepper.

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