Flamingo Feeding Encounter

Flamingo Feeding Encounter

Daily at 10:30 am
Members: $89.10 per person
Non-Members: $99 per person
Includes General Admission
Ages 12+
*Available between July 1 – 31

FOR ONE MONTH ONLY: Get ready, get set, flamin-GO to the National Aviary to mingle with some of our MOST ICONIC residents: American Flamingoes!

The only opportunity to hand-feed flamingoes at an AZA-accredited facility in Western Pennsylvania awaits you: Get nose-to-beak while offering a delicious snack to everyone’s favorite pink-hued birds.

  • Navigate through the lush vegetation of the National Aviary’s Wetlands habitat and venture to the shores of our beach (comfortable seats provided)!
  • Be greeted by a friendly flamingo…or two! Flamingoes are naturally inquisitive birds, and members of our flock may strut right up to you, gently nudge you, or even preen you.
  • Enjoy a front-row seat to their iconic honking, one-legged resting pose, and incredible wading abilities.
  • With the guidance of our expert aviculturists*, you’ll hand-feed our flamingoes a snack and learn all about their unique, filter-feeding method.
  • As you feed our flock, you’ll learn all about flamingoes in the wild and the importance of Wetlands conservation.
  • The best part? You’ll see more than just American Flamingoes on our Wetlands beach! A Brown Pelican may be swimming by while a Boat-billed Heron or Inca Tern perches in a tree above you!
  • Guests are encouraged to take photos or videos and to ask questions.
Book a Flamingo Feeding Encounter

Reserve your spot today, this limited-time Encounter is sure to sell out!

*An aviculturist is a National Aviary expert who provides daily care for our American Flamingoes

Mark your calendars for more unique Pop-Up Encounters through the summer, including a Penguin Painting Encounter in July, and an Armadillo and Friend Encounter in August. More details and registration coming soon!

Additional Information

  • This unique experience is designed for those ages 12 and up. Children 15 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult over 18 years of age.
  • Book before you visit to guarantee your experience. Same-day registration is based on limited program availability and cannot be guaranteed.  
  • Entering the Wetlands habitat: Access to the Flamingo Feeding Encounter area involves descending a small ramp and walking over uneven terrain. You will be seated in the Wetlands during the Encounter. Seats are portable chairs with a capacity of 250 lbs.
  • Attire: Sturdy, closed-toed shoes are required.
  • Interacting with our Flamingoes: We ask that guests walk slowly and carefully, as our flamingoes and other Wetlands residents will be in the habitat with you.
    • Flamingoes are filter feeders, meaning they turn their heads upside down to filter out their food from the water. Because of this, you may get splashed!
  • Personal Items: No bags or coats are permitted on the Wetlands beach. We will store your items that cannot be taken into the habitat with you. The National Aviary is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
    • Cell phones are permitted in the habitat; however, the ability to use such devices in the Wetlands during the Feeding will be left up to the discretion of the National Aviary staff member overseeing the Encounter. National Aviary staff are not able to take photos using a participant’s device.
  • The Flamingo Feeding Encounter is the ultimate chance to get close to American Flamingoes. It is designed for a maximum of two individuals; perfect for a couple, two friends, or even an individual feeder! Please note: when booking individually, another individual may also reserve the same time slot and be seated near you. 
  • At the National Aviary, we give our animals the choice to participate in interactive experiences with caring guests like you! If our flock needs a day of rest, we will contact you to reschedule your Encounter, as the comfort and safety of our animals and our guests is always our top priority. Thank you for understanding!

Questions? Email [email protected] or call 412-258-9445.

Proceeds from Animal Encounters support the National Aviary’s work to save birds and protect their habitats.

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