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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Nearly extinct species coming back in wild thanks to Pittsburgh aviary | Yahoo News

The National Aviary has two baby Guam Kingfishers, known as sihek in the indigenous CHamoru language. The male Guam kingfisher hatched on April 19, while the female hatched on May 12. On May 27, the male chick took his first flight.

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Nearly extinct species coming back in wild thanks to Pittsburgh aviary | USA Today

With the help of two recently hatched chicks, Pittsburgh's National Aviary has plans to help a bird species that no longer exists in the wild to once again find its way home.

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National Aviary welcomes new chick to Wetlands habitat | WPXI

Aviary officials just announced the hatching of a Roseate Spoonbill chick as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan.

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The Bird That Builds Its Own Incubator and Raises Itself (ft. insights from Senior Aviculturist, Brianna Crane) | A-Z Animals

Rather than sitting on their eggs themselves, they rely on external heat sources for incubation.

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National Aviary’s new bird causing a buzz in Northeast | KDKA

The Aviary recently welcomed Dariéna, a one-year-old female Harpy Eagle from the Miami Zoo, and she is the only known Harpy Eagle in the entire Northeast, weighing around 17 to 20 pounds.

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