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.

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  • 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.

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In The News

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What Garden Birds Need in June – 5 Ways to Support Them Through Breeding Season and Beyond (ft. insights from Bob Mulvihill) | Homes and Gardens

So, if you're looking to make your yard as bird-friendly as possible in June and beyond, this is the best way to start.

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How the World’s Most Abundant Bird Went Extinct (ft. insight from Bob Mulvihill) | A-Z Animals

In this article, we speak with Bob Mulvihill, Lead Ornithologist at the National Aviary, about the demise of passenger pigeons. Learn about Martha’s final days and the resulting rise of bird conservation efforts.

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Pennsylvania Capitol Zoo Day brings penguins, sloths and tortoises to Harrisburg | WGAL

Visitors got an up-close look at some amazing animal ambassadors during Zoo Day at the Pennsylvania State Capitol on Tuesday.

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A bird that’s extinct in the wild hatched at the National Aviary | CBS News

A bird that has been extinct in the wild for nearly 40 years was born at Pittsburgh's National Aviary.

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Pittsburgh’s skyline has become home to the once endangered peregrine falcon | TribLive

At Cathedral of Learning, baby peregrine falcons mark another generation.

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