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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The National Aviary receives prestigious accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums | Association of Zoos and Aquariums

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has announced that the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania was once again granted accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission.

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The Expert’s Guide to Helping Injured Birds During the Fall Migration | National Geographic

Every year billions of birds die from glass window collisions, or from house cat attacks. These incidents can be avoided, and injured birds can be taken care of.

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If You Hear “Kis-Ka-Dee,” Look Up Because Experts Say You May Have a Rare Visitor in Your Yard | Yahoo Life

But avid birdwatchers know that every region also has birds that are far less common—and that makes spotting one an extra memorable experience no matter how old you are.

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Musical Parking Chairs featuring the National Aviary’s Own Cathy Schlott! | The YaJagoff Podcast

Musical Parking Chairs? Yep! And a skunk and Blue Zone Food! Now THAT’s a show description!

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For $5, you can help name National Aviary’s skunk sisters. How to vote | USA Today

Pittsburgh's two new skunk sisters are one step closer to getting their names, thanks to the internet.

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