Witness the Transformation of the Tropical Rainforest!W ith its iconic Victoria Crowned

Pigeons, beloved macaws, and elevated walkway over a pond,

our Tropical Rainforest is one of the most popular exhibits at the National Aviary. It’s also the oldest. The 60-year old mechanical and electrical systems and the original windows are inefficient and contribute to heat loss and water leaks. All that is about to change.

A $1.2 million renovation of the Tropical Rainforest will begin in March and will include replacement of the glass, pane by pane, with an insulated, bird-friendly variety; installation of a waterfall feature and pond; and the introduction of new

species. During the renovations, most of our birds will be moved to an off-site facility, and a few may be found in other National Aviary habitats.

The Tropical Rainforest will remain open during the renovation so you can still visit Canary’s Call. While the work is underway, you can also see historic photos that illustrate the National Aviary’s journey from one of the country’s first indoor gardens with free-flying birds to the extensive avian research and conservation-focused educational facility it has become.

The enhanced exhibit will be unveiled in July. Come back often to watch the progress!

This important and needed transformation of the Tropical Rainforest is possible through the generosity of the Colcom Foundation and the Allegheny County Regional Asset District. We thank them for their support! •

Winter/Spring Bus Tours introducing a new tour: Winter Raptor Survey

The Tropical Rainforest, built in 1952, as it appeared decades ago (right).

t’s still a surprisingly common question: “Are you the National Aviary? The only one?” Yes! Your nation’s aviary lives right here in Pittsburgh!

Since earning “national” status from the U.S. Congress in 1993, the National Aviary has expanded in many ways. We’ve grown in size including the addition of the Helen M. Schmidt FliteZone™ Theater and the rooftop SkyDeck. Educational programs include interactive exhibits and animal encounters as well as community-based programs that

plant the seeds of conservation in the minds of the next generation. You can interact with birds like never before!

The most important growth, and the least seen by our visitors, is the National Aviary’s network of national and international strategic partners and activities that have made significant advances in species and habitat preservation through field research, collaboration, and

establishment of best practices, both scientifically and medically. These efforts are far reaching and enduring.

As we begin the next 25 years, the National Aviary will continue

to grow in all ways necessary to raise awareness of the threats

to birds and habitats, explore solutions to immediate and long-term concerns, and secure the future of birds around the world. •

National Aviary Marks 25 Year Anniversary

I

NEWS FROM THE NATIONAL AVIARYW

INT

ER/SPR

ING

2018

25 Years of Conservation and Education

This year marks a momentous anniversary for the National Aviary and for the protection and conservation of wild birds. Our connection and commitment to birds and their habitats is embodied by strategic partnerships and conservation activities around the world and by unparalleled exhibits and visitor experiences here at home.

Twenty-five years ago the Pittsburgh Aviary became the National Aviary through a declaration of the U.S. Congress, but it was more than a name change. The national status allowed us to spread our wings, creating novel ways to design exhibits, educational programs, and interactive experiences that excite and inspire while instilling respect for the interconnectedness of all natural things.

Today, as the only independent indoor nonprofit zoo dedicated to birds in the country, we offer something that no one else can, and we continue to evolve. This year we will conduct an extensive renovation of the Tropical Rainforest, unveil an energized Amazon-themed theater show, and welcome precious new additions that you won’t want to miss.

While we love raising awareness and delighting visitors with unforgettable experiences, it’s only a component of what we do at the National Aviary. As members and supporters you know the magnitude of our research, field conservation, and breeding programs that have impacted the avian world in lasting ways. From sharing expertise on Andean Condors with colleagues in Ecuador to delivering critical medical supplies to care for African Penguins in Cape Town, our expert staff are committed to saving endangered species, conserving habitats, and collaborating on best practices with partners around the world.

As we celebrate our silver anniversary we realize that we could not have reached it without our compassionate members and donors whose generosity makes our work possible. We invite you to travel from winter to spring at the National Aviary, and experience the ever-changing ways we bring the wonder of wildlife to you.

Sincerely,

Cheryl L. Tracy Executive Director

From the Director

The National Aviary inspires respect for nature through an appreciation of birds.

Stay Connectedwww.aviary.org | 412-323-7235

Editor: Robin WeberSenior Director Marketing & Community Relations Robin.Weber@aviary.org

Twitter: @National_AviaryFacebook: Facebook.com/NationalAviaryInstagram: @National_Aviary

Groups of 15 or more can register in advance to receive admission discounts and special packages. Call 412-258-9463 for group options.

BirdCalls is published for members and benefactors of the National Aviary. Subscriptions are free with membership.

The National Aviary is excited to announce several new species and the debut of Amazing Amazon, a new multi-media free-flight show presented by AAA Travel in

the Helen M. Schmidt FliteZone™ Theater that opens March 3! You’ll meet our new Toco Toucan, marvel at a Southern Three-

banded Armadillo, make friends with Valentino the two-toed sloth, and be mesmerized by multicolored macaws, all the while learning how tropical species interact with their environment and what sustainable choices you can make to help protect the world’s rainforests. Your eyes will be opened to the wild wonders of the Amazon! •

Book an armadillo encounter daily at 2:30 or feed an aracari daily at 12:00!

Prepare to be Amazed!

Page 2 |birdcallsbirdcalls

African Penguins are critically endangered for many reasons including lack of nest

sites on the beaches. The National Aviary participates in a program that designs artificial nest boxes for penguins to lay eggs and raise young. I was thrilled to see these actual nest boxes on the beach with wild penguins in them.

Rescue centers, such as SANCCOB in Cape Town, treat over 1,500 injured, ill, and orphaned penguins each year. We met with their veterinary staff and delivered the National Aviary’s donation of critical medical supplies. Items were put to use immediately — from stethoscopes and wound care supplies to surgical instruments and medicines — as we watched the staff feeding hatchling penguins in the nursery, caring for older chicks in the group pool, and treating injured penguins in the hospital. It was inspiring to see the many years of the National Aviary’s financial and volunteer support directly impacting conservation efforts and helping save endangered African Penguins. •

The National Aviary brings the world to western Pennsylvania every day of the year, and so it was exciting for me to take 27 people

from Pennsylvania and surrounding states out into the world to experience the extraordinary scenery and wildlife of South Africa this past October.

The two-week adventure led us up mountains, down canyons, across savannahs, and of course, onto Boulders Beach in Cape Town to see wild penguins. As we marveled at the native wildlife, I highlighted conservation efforts and successes the National Aviary has personally supported. The bird life in South Africa was spectacular; we saw over 65 species of birds including Paradise Whydahs, the same long-tailed bird that inhabits our Grasslands exhibit. At Kruger National Park the group went on a safari, getting a close look at elephants, giraffes, lions, and even a leopard!

Join the National Aviary in Costa Rica in 2018! In partnership with AAA Travel, the National Aviary will be hosting a tour to Costa Rica in fall 2018. To learn more call Audrey Beichner at 412-258-9463 or email audrey.beichner@aviary.org. •

As a veterinarian at the National Aviary, I’m privileged to work with African birds living here who are ambassadors, including the spectacular African Penguin, inspiring people about wildlife conservation.”

“

Adventures in South Africaby Dr. Pilar Fish, Director of Veterinary Medicine

Meeting Critical Needs for Endangered African Penguins

O ne hundred years ago the Migratory Bird Treaty Act was far ahead of its time, safeguarding

future generations of birds in North America. Today, this powerful federal law continues to protect over 1,000 species.

To celebrate this seminal legislation, the National Aviary joins partners including National Geographic, the National Audubon Society, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and BirdLife

International in marking 2018 as “Year of the Bird.” This multi-faceted campaign includes a new theme each month through which we’ll encourage people to explore the splendor and spectacle of birds, the threats they face, and ways we all can help. Join the conversation with #YearoftheBird and #BirdYourWorld. And, share with the National Aviary which birds you notice in 2018 using #NoticeBirds. •

A New Way to #NoticeBirds Every Month

Valentino Turned Two… and People Noticed!Our beloved sloth, Valentino,

celebrated his 2nd birthday with local and national fanfare. A People.com web post garnered nearly 45 million page views and was shared by IMDb (Internet Movie Database), generating another 30 million. People also posted an Instagram video that received over 327,000 views and 19,750 likes! A photo of our famous sloth also appeared in Animal Tales magazine’s December issue. •

W I N T E R / S P R I N G 2 0 1 8 | Page 3

National Aviary Winter/Spring EventsJanuary 27 - 28 Masters of the Sky 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Included with admissionMeet the National Aviary’s birds of prey! Enjoy exciting bird appearances and cool activities for the whole family.

January 31 & February 3 Things are Looking Up! Winter Raptor Survey Day Tour9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Details on opposite pageRegistration required. $85 members/$95 nonmembers. (price includes lunch and raptor field guide)

February 11 Penguin Painting 3 p.m.Details on opposite pageRegistration required. $40 per person (does not include general admission)

February 23 21+ EventWelcome to the Jungle6 – 10 p.m. Take a break from the winter weather and enjoy a rainforest-inspired evening at the National Aviary’s 21+ fundraiser! Enjoy drinks, light bites, music, dancing and jungle-themed activities, all while supporting our work in conservation and education. $25 early bird pricing available now! $30 per person in advance via aviary.org and Showclix. $35 at the door.

February 24 - 25 FlamingoFest 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Included with admissionFlock to the National Aviary for FlamingoFest! There will be flamingo-themed activities for all ages: stories, crafts, and even flamingo “yoga!” Put on your pink and join us!

March 3 Amazing Amazon debut11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. DailyExcept Tuesdays when our birds are resting. Helen M. Schmidt FliteZone™ Theater

March 7

March 11 Penguin Painting 3 p.m.Details on opposite pageRegistration required. $40 per person (does not include general admission)

March 17Grebes, Loons, Geese…Oh My! Waterfowl Migration Day Tour 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Details on opposite pageRegistration required. $85 members/$95 nonmembers. (price includes lunch)

March 24 Psyanky Eggs1 – 3 p.m. Learn psanky, the traditional Ukrainian art of creating beautiful Easter eggs, then take your egg and decorating kit home so you can make more! Call 412-258-9445 to register. $20 members/$25 nonmembers. (does not include general admission)

March 24 Member Morning with the Easter Bunny9 – 10 a.m. Members, bring your cameras and hippity hop in to take pictures with the Easter Bunny, enjoy light pastries, make a craft, and explore the exhibits before we open to the public.

March 24 – 25 & March 30 – April 1Eggstravaganza! 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Included with admissionHop in for the most egg-cellent spring celebration in Pittsburgh! There will be so much to see and do — a parade with the Easter Bunny, a bird-themed outdoor egg hunt, story time with a live bird appearance, and more!

April 1 Easter Brunch featuring Atria’s Two Seatings: 10:30 a.m. | 12:30 p.m.Celebrate the holiday with a delectable brunch prepared by Chef Josef Karst of Atria’s catering! Dine in our heated Rose Garden tent and enjoy visits from some of the National Aviary’s most popular and colorful birds.

Member Adult: $32, Member Child 4-10: $17 Adult: $37, Child 4-10: $19.50 Children 3 and Under: Free Includes admissionCall 412-258-9445 to register. Space is limited; reservations required. Tickets are transferable but not refundable.

April 8 Penguin Painting 3 p.m.Details on opposite pageRegistration required. $40 per person (does not include general admission)

April 21 Bird-Friendly Backyards10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Come learn about ways you can make your yard more attractive for birds and also healthier for your family and pets with ornithologist Bob Mulvihill. Call 412-258-9445 to register. $25 members/$30 nonmembers. (does not include general admission)

April 28 - 29Rainforest Adventure 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Included with admissionCelebrate the rainforest and learn about its intricate ecosystem! Meet beautiful rainforest birds and other creatures including a two-toed sloth. Enjoy fun crafts, activities and story time with a live bird appearance.

May 5Bird Migration Hotspot! Presque Isle Day Tour 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Details on opposite pageRegistration required. $85 members/$95 nonmembers. (price includes lunch)

May 12 & 19 Penguin Celebration!11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Included with admissionVisit the National Aviary to show your support for African Penguins, which are endangered in the wild. See a penguin up close, make penguin-themed crafts, and find out how you can help save penguins and other seabirds.

Costa Rica Trip Travel Planning Session6 – 8 p.m. Want to have an adventure in Costa Rica? Join us to learn about our upcoming trip through AAA Travel! Arrive early and tour our exhibits, then meet with National Aviary veterinarian Dr. Pilar Fish who will travel with you from October 13-23, 2018 in Costa Rica. Enjoy refreshments and an appearance by a bird native to our destination! RSVP by contacting Audrey Beichner at 412-258-9463 or audrey.beichner@aviary.org.

Presented by

Page 4 |birdcallsbirdcalls

Feb. 11 | Mar. 11 | Apr. 8 | May 13

The National Aviary’s talented African Penguins paint with their feet! Guests choose colors for their 11 x 14” painting and watch the artist at work.

Call 412-258-9445 to register.

Penguin Painting

This Summer... SkyDeck reopens in May and so does the popular Butterfly Garden where you can hand-feed native species! And don’t miss the unveiling of the new Tropical Rainforest in July!

IMPORTANT: CLOSURES AND CHANGES The National Aviary will be closed January 29, March 20 and April 10.We will open at noon on May 6 due to the Pittsburgh Marathon.

May 12 Hummingbirds and Butterflies10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Celebrate Migratory Bird Day by joining ornithologist Bob Mulvihill to learn all about hummingbirds and butterflies, including how to attract different varieties to your backyard.Call 412-258-9445 to register. $25 members/$30 nonmembers. (does not include general admission)

May 13 Penguin Painting 3 p.m.Details aboveRegistration required. $40 per person (does not include general admission)

May 13 Mother’s Day Brunch featuring Atria’s Two Seatings: 10:30 a.m. | 12:30 p.m.Celebrate mom with a brunch prepared by Chef Josef Karst of Atria’s catering. Dine in our heated Rose Garden tent and enjoy visits from some of the National Aviary’s famous mother birds.

Member Adult: $32 Member Child 4-10: $17 Adult: $37, Child 4-10: $19.50 Children 3 and Under: Free Includes admissionCall 412-258-9445 to register. Space is limited; reservations required. Tickets are transferable but not refundable.

Registration required: Audrey.Beichner@aviary.org or 412-258-9463. Hurry and reserve your spot; these trips sell out quickly! More details at aviary.org.

You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy nature. All ages and experience levels are welcome on our popular bus tours led by ornithologist, Bob Mulvihill. Join us as

we spot winter raptors, follow waterfowl, and witness spring migrations. All aboard!

Jan. 31 & Feb. 3 Things are Looking Up! Winter Raptor Survey Day TourJoin Bob on a brand new winter adventure: the Hawk Migration Association’s annual raptor census! You’ll see up to ten different raptors including winter-only species like the Rough-legged Hawk and Northern Shrike. We’ll also visit Goddard State Park to see a Bald Eagle nest!

Outdoor Adventures for Everyone!

March 17 Grebes, Loons, Geese…Oh My! Waterfowl Migration Day TourSee hundreds of waterfowl including ducks, grebes, loons, geese and swans at resting and feeding sites. You may see Bald Eagles and Sandhill Cranes too! Stops include Lake Arthur, Conneaut Marsh, and more.

May 5 Bird Migration Hotspot! Presque Isle Day TourBob will lead you through one of the most important migration hotspots in Pennsylvania. Birds rest and refuel on Presque Isle before continuing over the Great Lakes to nesting grounds as far as northern Canada and Alaska.

Daily ScheduleFebruary 1 - May 25

= requires additional ticket/fee

10:30 a.m. Wetlands Feeding Wetlands

11:00 a.m. Amazing Amazon Begins March 3 Presented by

No Show Tuesdays Helen M. Schmidt FliteZone™ Theater

1 1:30 a.m. - Lorikeet Feeding 12:00 p.m. Canary’s Call Presented by

12:00 p.m. Aracari Feeding Igloo/Encounter Tent

12:30 p.m. Baby Sloth Talk Penguin Point

1:00 p.m. Penguin Feeding Penguin Point

1:30 p.m. Amazing Amazon Begins March 3 Presented by

No Show Tuesdays Helen M. Schmidt FliteZone™ Theater

1:30 p.m. - Wetlands Feeding Wetlands

2:00 p.m. - Lorikeet Feeding 2:30 p.m. Canary’s Call Presented by

2:45 p.m. Thru Feb. 28 Tropical Forest Feeding Tropical Forest

Begins March 1 Condor Talk Condor Court

3:15 p.m. Bat Feeding Canary’s Call Presented by

4:00 p.m. Penguin Feeding Penguin Point

4:00 p.m. - Lorikeet Feeding 4:30 p.m. Canary’s Call Presented by

W I N T E R / S P R I N G 2 0 1 8 | Page 5

J oin us in welcoming the National Aviary’s newest addition — a baby female two-toed sloth! She was born on August 21, 2017, and arrived at the National

Aviary in December, greeting her first visitors on January 9.

Although she and Valentino came from the same Floridian breeder, it already seems that our new female has her own personality! She is quite independent and has taken to exploring her new home and investigating scents and sounds including the variety of bird vocals that she will experience in her habitat.

Since sloths are solitary animals, Valentino and our new female will not live together but may be paired together for breeding when she reaches maturity in four or five years.

By March, you’ll be able to stop by the Avian Care Center window to get a closer look as she explores her new world. Until then see her daily at 12:30 during Baby Sloth Talk! •

Girl!

T his year’s Wings & Wildlife Opening Soirée and Benefit Auction broke all the records!

Highest attendance, largest number and variety of artists, and highest dollar amount raised…ever!

Guests enjoyed cocktails and canapés as they perused an array of distinctive art pieces and bonded with other wildlife lovers. From paintings and photography to textiles, jewelry, and stained glass, there was something for every taste. The event took wing when African Penguins paraded through the party and a Hooded Vulture swooped over the crowd.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the generous supporters, sponsors, and talented artists that made the weekend a success. Plans are already underway for Wings & Wildlife 2018. If you or your company would like to get involved contact Ted Bartlett at 412-258-9433 or ted.bartlett@aviary.org. •

Thank you to the following individual supporters who made donations of $500+ in the past 12 months. Your generosity helps fund the care of our animals. To be a part of our Donor Society, contact Ted.Bartlett@aviary.org or 412-258-9433.

MARTIAL EAGLE $2,500+Carol AdamsAnonymous (2)Jennifer and Keith BertettoGloria and Donald CaseyMarc-Andre and Veronique FleuryPatrick and Alice LoughneyBrian and Sandra MoroneyAlicia and Colin PowellJames and Susan RalstonEstate of Renee SerokisElizabeth SpenceS. Adam and Lauren SufrinKathleen and Louis Testoni

DONOR SOCIETY

The National Aviary values each of our donors and has made every attempt to accurately recognize every one. If you see an error or omission, please accept our apologies and contact Ted.Bartlett@aviary.org or 412-258-9433.

List as of 12-10-17

SNOWY OWL $1,000-$2,499Sheila Bair and Mike KoshHarold and Ingrid BalkJosh and Jacklyn BanyasMaris A. BondiRichard CarusoAndrea DiMartiniPatricia DodgeSusan and Christopher FarrellMichael J. and Eileen FlinnDr. Douglas Corkum, Betty Flora and FamilyLaurie GrahamJonathan HartmanSy HolzerJonas and Janis Johnson

Thomas and Christine KobusSandy and Robert LumishPerry and Megan MyersNagy NagiubHeidi NitzeCurtis ScaifeJames and Luanne Shock

SCARLET MACAW $500-$999AnonymousLee Cambria and Kathy HaefnerDonna and Robert DiMiliaJane and Michael DixonEileen Katherine FlinnWilliam and Natalie FreyvogelTimothy and Joan Goetz

Michael P. and Lisa HartDr. Susan Hoppe and Dr. Michael GoodhartJohn and Christine HortySteven and Helen KashmerPatrick and Helen KinlanJeff KlamutNathan and Heather LazurJames E. and Cathy LehmanMaureen and Tom MaddenGregory and Mary MarchettiMichael and Libby MascaroBlaine and Virginia McKinleyMadeline MilesShirley and Ward OlanderGregg RamshawRebecca Rupp

Lauren Schneider and Dean ThompsonHenry Shaw Beukema, IIIElizabeth ShimshockKate St. JohnCaroline and Matt StrombergDr. Jason and Liz ThomasDr. Kathryn Van Stone and Mr. Robert SmithSally WigginThomas and Barbara Wiley

Dr. Pilar Fish, Sally Wiggin, and National Aviary Executive Director, Cheryl Tracy

Featured artist Maria DeSimone Prascak with husband Johno Prascak.

Rob Dauer, Maris Bondi, Patti Dodge and Howard Schulberg

Page 6 |birdcallsbirdcalls

It’s a

Wings & Wildlife Reaches New Heights

SILVER Boyd Roll-Off Services, Inc.

Meyer, Unkovic & Scott WTW Architects

MEDIA SPONSORS iHeartMedia

LAMAR Advertising Pittsburgh Magazine

WHIRL Magazine

RETAIL ART MATERIAL Blick Art Materials

Thanks to All of Our Sponsors!

GOLD

When National Aviary Director of Animal Collections, Kurt Hundgen, stood high in the mountains of the

Antisana Ecological Reserve and watched an Andean Condor soaring above him he was overwhelmed. While he has worked to save the species for many years, it was the first time he saw it in the wild. “The majestic ease of the condors riding the thermals in that vast expanse of sky was something I’ll never forget,” says Kurt. “It was impressive.”

In October, Kurt was invited to speak at the National Andean Condor Working Group (NACWG) in Ecuador. Kurt discussed care of

Andean Condors in zoological settings, including breeding and Species Survival Plan® management protocols in North America. The Andean Condor is critically endangered in Ecuador with only about 100 remaining. This visit was an important step in our international partnership to protect High Andes habitats and save the Andean Condor from extinction there.

The National Aviary’s multi-faceted species preservation effort in Ecuador includes a field research program in the Andes Mountains, funding one of the world’s largest Andean Condor exhibits and breeding programs, a veterinary clinic modeled after our own, collaborations to share best practices, and ongoing support for education in Ecuador and

among our visitors.

During his trip, Kurt visited six zoological facilities managing

condors for breeding and several condor

reserves, including

Antisana. He spotted six wild juveniles during the trip, one of them roosting on a rock ledge with an adult. “It’s very encouraging to see that they’re breeding in the wild,” he says.

Kurt also visited the National Aviary’s partner institution, the Bioparque Amaru zoo in Cuenca, to consult on operations and the progress of joint breeding programs that will ultimately release chicks into the wild.

The significant work that the National Aviary is conducting to save the Andean Condor in Ecuador is a strong component of our global impact. With field activities in the Dominican Republic, Guam, South Africa and many other regions, we continue to advance worldwide efforts to protect and preserve avian species and habitats. •

Andean Condors in the Skies of Ecuador

HATCHINGS: We witnessed two tiny miracles when our pair of Red-legged Honeycreepers reared and fledged their first chicks ever at the National Aviary! It is extremely rare for this diminutive species to breed in zoological settings.

The National Aviary continues to be the leader in the reintroduction of Guam Rails to the wild. Our pair raised another two clutches since the fall for a total of nine juveniles; seven will be sent to Guam this January.

The flamingos we hatched last summer are now wading in the Wetlands. They will be turning one this summer and have already begun transforming from their fluffy gray and white feathers to the fiery pink they are known for. Don’t miss it!

ACQUISITIONS: The male Demoiselle Crane that came to us last summer now has a mate! These migratory birds are indigenous to Eurasia and are the smallest crane species.

Two Eastern Screech Owls – one gray morph and one red morph – joined the ranks of our animal ambassadors. •

Hatchings & Acquisitions Red Morph Eastern Screech

Owl

Guam Rails

Red-legged Honeycreepers

Juvenile American Flamingo

Demoiselle Crane

W I N T E R / S P R I N G 2 0 1 8 | Page 7

SILVER Boyd Roll-Off Services, Inc.

Meyer, Unkovic & Scott WTW Architects

MEDIA SPONSORS iHeartMedia

LAMAR Advertising Pittsburgh Magazine

WHIRL Magazine

RETAIL ART MATERIAL Blick Art Materials

Thanks to All of Our Sponsors!

GOLD

National Aviary in Pittsburgh, Inc.Allegheny Commons West700 Arch StreetPittsburgh, PA 15212-5201

NON-PROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPITTSBURGH, PAPERMIT NO. 3316

In This Issue:1 Tropical Rainforest Transformation National Aviary Marks 25 Year Anniversary2 Prepare to be Amazed!3 A New Way to #NoticeBirds Every Month Valentino Turned Two… Adventures in South Africa + a New Costa Rica Trip4-5 Event Calendar ~ Outdoor Adventures for Everyone6 It’s a Girl! Wings & Wildlife Reaches New Heights7 Andean Condors in the Skies of Ecuador Hatchings & Acquisitions

Have you ever thought of holding your corporate event, anniversary party,

wedding or other special occasion at the National Aviary?

The Knot, the leader in wedding planning, named the National Aviary as a “Best of Weddings” award winner based on positive client reviews. Only 3% of The Knot’s 300,000 vendors receive this distinction each year.

With both indoor and outdoor spaces available, the National Aviary is the perfect setting for an intimate affair or a large cocktail style reception for 500. You can even delight your guests with an appearance by a penguin, parrot, owl or

other bird of prey!

Call 412-258-9436 or email us at myevent@aviary.org for information.

The National Aviary has once again been approved as an educational

improvement organization (EIO) under the PA Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program for the fiscal year 2017-2018. The EITC program could enable your company to receive a Pennsylvania tax credit of up to 90% of your contribution to the National Aviary, and when you factor in the impact on federal taxes, your contribution can approach a 100%

benefit for your company!

Learn more by contacting Laurie Nicholl at 412-258-9470 or visiting www.aviary.org/EITC

Your Event Will Take Off at the National Aviary!

Winter/Spring Bus Tours introducing a new tour: Winter Raptor Survey

with ornithologist Bob Mulvihill ~ see page 5 for details

Businesses CanSave on TaxesWhile Saving Birds