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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Falcon from Pitt’s Cathedral of Learning nest recovering after collision and lead exposure | MSN

The National Aviary, which runs a livestream camera of the nest, says Red was admitted to the Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh's Wildlife Center for treatment, where he was also diagnosed with elevated lead levels.

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Young falcon from Pitt’s Cathedral of Learning nest recovering after collision and lead exposure | CBS News

Red, a young peregrine falcon that hatched in the nest on top of Pitt's Cathedral of Learning this spring, is in the care of humans after he apparently suffered a collision and then tested positive for lead exposure.

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The first Andean condor in Ecuador is born in Cuenca under artificial incubation | Expreso

The Amaru Biopark announced the birth of Ecuador's first Andean condor through artificial incubation, a step forward for conservation.

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Forget the plane. Your tropical vacation can be found in Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh Today Live

The National Aviary is bringing the island vibes to Pittsburgh, with music, cocktails, and plenty of birds.

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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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