Species Survival Plan®

Species Survival Plan®

The National Aviary is proud to be part of the Species Survival Plan® (SSP) Programs for more than 80 species. SSP Programs work to protect endangered species and ensure their survival through breeding programs, habitat preservation, and education.

By participating in these plans, the National Aviary is taking an active role in the conservation of some of the world’s most vulnerable species. Read just a few of our stories below.

Some of our animals within SSP Programs may temporarily move to other accredited zoos at the recommendation of the SSP coordinator(s).

  • Eurasian Eagle-Owls

    Eurasian Eagle-Owls faced considerable decline in Europe in the 1900s, going extinct in select areas and facing population reductions elsewhere.

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  • Guam Kingfishers

    Guam Kingfishers, known locally as Sihek, have been Extinct in the Wild for four decades.

    Learn More
  • Guam Rails

    In 1987, only 21 Guam Rails remained after their population was nearly driven to extinction by an invasive species.

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  • Vietnam Pheasants

    Not seen in the wild since 2000, the Vietnam Pheasant is currently listed as Critically Endangered, but many believe the species could be Extinct in the Wild.

    Learn More

In The News

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Four peregrine falcon eggs hatch in nest on top of Pitt’s Cathedral of Learning | CBS News

There are four peregrine falcon chicks in the nest on top of the University of Pittsburgh's Cathedral of Learning after all the eggs hatched.

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3 peregrine falcon chicks hatch in Cathedral of Learning nest | MSN

High above the crowds in Pittsburgh for the NFL Draft, the team of a beloved peregrine falcon pair was growing.

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The National Aviary’s football connections | Pittsburgh Today Live

Just steps from where all the action will take place sits the largest indoor aviary in the country! Team PTL's Daisy Jade went over to the National Aviary and learned that there is a football connection!

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Maximize your draft experience with our guide to where to watch, eat, drink and roam | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

This nation’s largest indoor aviary is a 0.7-mile walk northeast of Acrisure Stadium, inside Allegheny Commons Park.

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