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.

    Learn More
  • 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.”

    Learn More
  • 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.

    Learn More
  • 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.

    Learn More
  • 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.

    Learn More
  • 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.

    Learn More
  • 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.

    Learn More
  • 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.

    Learn More
  • Species Survival Plan® Programs

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

    Learn More
  • Meet Our Team

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

    Learn More

In The News

See All News

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.

Read More »

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.

Read More »

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.

Read More »

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

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

Read More »

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.

Read More »