‘Seaside Escape’ at National Aviary showcases tropical birds and their warm habitats
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As winter takes hold, look no further than the National Aviary as the place to trade gloomy weather for tropical splendor. The new season “Seaside Escape” showcases the magnificence of all the tropical species and settings that the Aviary, located on Pittsburgh’s North Side, has to offer.
The Aviary season’s activities and programs also promote awareness on how to protect coastal avian wildlife and their habitats.
“Every season at the National Aviary offers up a different experience with new activities that bring you closer to nature. This winter, we’re bringing our guests on a Seaside Escape and highlighting beautiful wetland and coastal habitats and the birds that live in these special places,” said National Aviary Director of Animal Programs and Experiences Cathy Schlott.
“Not only is a visit to the National Aviary a great way to learn how we can all help protect habitats for birds and people alike, but nothing is better than going into a warm, tropical habitat with colorful birds on a cold and gray Pittsburgh day.”
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The popular Wetlands Feeding has returned, better than ever, with the reopening of the beautifully renovated Wetlands habitat. Guests can watch an Aviary expert feed many species of birds, including golden-breasted starlings, Bali mynas and Hadada ibises, among others. Like many Seaside Escape activities, the Wetlands Feeding is included with admission.
This season’s theme also offers the opportunity to experience tropical climates and habitats in the Discover the Rainforest daily activity.
This activity takes place in the immersive Tropical Rainforest habitat, where a National Aviary expert will guide guests in learning about fascinating birds like the great Argus pheasant or the Nicobar pigeon. In addition, they can take in the beauty of tropical vegetation, such as cacao or coffee trees.
“During Seaside Escape, you can get close to beautiful birds during activities like the guest favorite Wetlands Feeding, where birds walk, waddle and fly right by you during mealtime,” Schlott said.
“You can also take a closer look at some of the fascinating species in the Tropical Rainforest during Discover the Rainforest, which gives you a new perspective on the animals and plants thriving in this immersive habitat. We also have fun, engaging play spaces throughout the Aviary.”
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A brand-new Animal Encounter also gets its start this season, as an opportunity for children ages 6 and under to get even closer to birds! The Jr. Toucan Encounter, teaches guests how colorful toucans use their most striking feature — their beaks! — to thrive in tropical habitats.
Guests will be told stories and given touchable biofacts to observe while enjoying a visit from a petite curl-crested aracari, providing the crowd an up-close view. Animal Encounters, included in the price of admission, can be booked in advance at aviary.org. Proceeds from Animal Encounters support the National Aviary’s work to save birds and protect habitats.
Seaside Escape at the National Aviary runs from Jan. 4 through May 26.
The Aviary is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (closed on Tuesdays in January and February). Visit the website, aviary.org, or call 412-323-7235 for more information.
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