Where: Pittsburgh, PA

What: A Zoo Just for Birds!

Fun Factor: 10

The National Aviary is the only independent zoo only for birds in the U.S. Located in Pittsburgh, PA, the National Aviary has indoor habitats for more than 500 birds from around the world, many of them threatened or endangered in the wild. 

The habitats are vast, with walking trails through jungles, forests, and rocky terrain. In many of the habitats the birds fly free over your head, while in others–such as the popular penguin exhibit—the birds are behind glass.

While shooting through the glass, I caught a magestic profile of Kodiak, a Stellar’s sea eagle. Back in the fall of 2021 Kodiak made national news when he escaped his enclosure and lived in the wild–well, the urban wild–trees in the neighborhood around the aviary.

Round the clock surveillance had city and community members watching and reporting sightings of the giant bird stretching its wings about the city. Kodiak was finally captured, given a thorough health check—which he passed with flying colors—and returned to his enclosure.

If you’re looking for a place off the beaten track in Pittsburgh, the National Aviary with its penguins, parrots, and birds of prey is fascinating for all ages.

Find out about hours and admission to the National Aviary here.

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