Species Survival Plan®

Species Survival Plan®

The National Aviary is proud to be part of the Species Survival Plan® (SSP) 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.

  • 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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Pitt falcon fledglings fly the Cathedral of Learning coop, but likely linger in Oakland | 90.5 WESA

Falcons born at the Cathedral of Learning have also been found nesting in Ohio, New York, and Ontario.

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National Aviary reveals genders of its newest African penguins | WTAE

The National Aviary revealed the genders of its newest African penguins on social media Tuesday. The penguins hatched in early February, and they are the offspring of penguin parents Bette and Sidney.

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National Aviary reveals genders of its newest African Penguin chicks | WPXI

Another aviary resident, Red the Scarlet Macaw, helped with the reveal, opening bird safe “candies.”

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National Aviary reveals genders of 2 new African penguin chicks | CBS News

With the help of a scarlet macaw, the National Aviary revealed the genders of its newest African penguins on Tuesday.

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3 young peregrine falcons on Pitt’s Cathedral of Learning fledge the nest | KDKA News

The three young peregrine falcons that hatched on top of Pitt's Cathedral of Learning this spring have fledged the nest.

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