Wings of the World Coming to Audubon Zoo

Wings of the World is set to take flight at Audubon Zoo when it opens to the public on Friday, March 3, 2023.

The new exhibit is inside the newly restored and much beloved Tropical Bird House, which is part of the historic Odenheimer area at the Zoo dating back to 1924. Wings of the World is the largest and most immersive experience of its kind in the region and combines lush foliage with new exhibitry, an aviary, and a colorful variety of more than 60 birds from around the world.

This aviary oasis engages visitors from the moment they step inside with enchanting bird songs, colorful plumage, a walk-through habitat, and conservation stories that inspire a deeper connection to nature. One of the most critical conservation stories at Wings of the World is that of the Guam Kingfisher, a small red and blue bird that is one of the most endangered species in the world. After the introduction of brown tree snakes to Guam resulted in their extinction in the wild, the few remaining birds were placed in human care.

“Audubon is proud to join other Zoos around the world working with Guam kingfishers. We are hopeful the birds in our care will breed,” said Mike Houlihan, Curator of Birds at Audubon Zoo. “The survival of this species depends on conservation efforts at zoos around the world to increase their numbers with the ultimate goal of returning them to the wild.”

A variety of endangered bird species will populate this new exhibit including the rare Bali Myna, another critically endangered species. These stocky snow-white birds have beautiful blue skin around their eyes and are only found on the Indonesian island of Bali. Sadly, they are nearly extinct in the wild and only about 100 are believed to be left due to habitat loss and poaching for the pet trade.

“Wings of the World allows our guests to be immersed in the beauty of nature and experience seeing and hearing many different species of birds in one place,” said Ron Forman, Audubon Nature Institute President and CEO. “Many of these rare and endangered species suffer because of human impacts including illegal hunting and habitat destruction. By encountering these unusual species here at Audubon Zoo, we hope to encourage our guests to learn about and practice conservation and sustainability in their lives to make a positive impact on the larger world.”

The restoration of the Tropical Bird House continues Audubon Zoo’s 100-year history with birds, from its humble beginnings as a single aviary exhibit to the more than 50-acre facility dedicated to celebrating the wonders of nature that it is today.  Wings of the World is included in Audubon Zoo admission.