The big bird cage, more formally known as the Aviary at the San Diego Zoo, is one of the largest free-flight aviaries in the world. Spanning 2.5 acres and reaching 100 feet high, this enormous walk-through enclosure is home to a wide variety of exotic bird species from around the globe. But how well does this massive bird habitat actually rate in terms of features and visitor experience? Let’s take a closer look at the details.
Enclosure Size and Layout
At approximately 2.5 acres, the Aviary provides an exceptionally large flight area for the birds. For comparison, the average aviary at most zoos ranges from 1,000-5,000 square feet. The vast interior space allows even the largest bird species like storks and cranes to freely spread their wings. The enclosure features multiple levels connected by bridges and ropes, giving birds vertical spaces to perch and nest. The layout maximizes flight paths and sight lines for visitor viewing without overly congesting the area for the birds.
Species Diversity and Compatibility
With over 400 birds representing more than 100 different species, the Aviary houses an incredibly diverse bird collection. Ranging from tiny finches to massive hornbills, the variety of shapes, sizes, and behaviors makes for dynamic viewing. Remarkably, most of these species coexist harmoniously despite being from all corners of the world. This peaceful cohabitation results from careful species selection, ample space, and expert animal management. However, minor squabbles still emerge given the sheer number of birds. Overall, the species diversity and compatibility rates highly for an exhibit of this scale.
Habitat Quality and Enrichment
The Aviary thoughtfully recreates varied naturalistic habitats preferred by the species housed. Tropical forests, tropical beaches, swamps, deserts, and more are represented within the enclosure. Natural vegetation, ponds, streams, waterfalls, rockwork, logs, and other elements encourage natural behaviors. Enrichment items like puzzle feeders, toys, and nesting materials provide mental stimulation. The birds’ welfare is further supported through top-notch veterinary care. With habitats catered to physical and psychological needs, the Aviary offers a high quality of life for its residents.
Educational Value
As a walk-through exhibit, the Aviary allows extremely close viewing of the birds. Interpretive signs provide details on species natural histories, conservation, and unique adaptations. Free-flight demonstrations with trained birds and zookeeper talks further highlight bird features and behaviors. Special aviary feeding experiences let visitors actively engage. Overall, the Aviary provides exceptional educational opportunities to learn about a variety of birds from around the world.
Visitor Experience
Walking beneath freely flying scarlet macaws, watching Secretary Birds stride past at eye level, and having finches land on your hands are just some of the magical interactions visitors routinely experience. Lush tropical plantings and natural sights and sounds heighten immersion. With so much flight activity happening all around, there is always something exciting to see. Crowding is minimized through multiple pathways. Fun extras like a children’s play area make it engaging for all ages. The Aviary provides an unforgettable visitor experience that rates extremely well.
Accessibility
The Aviary thoughtfully incorporates accessibility features to maximize enjoyment for all guests. Level pathways allow wheelchair access through almost the entire exhibit. Lower-level viewing areas and benches are available. Interpretive signage features both English and Braille. Hearing loops transmit interpreter audio. The play area includes specialized equipment. With these inclusive accommodations, visitors with diverse abilities can have comparable aviary experiences. Accessibility is certainly a highlight.
Conclusion
When reviewing dimensions like size, species diversity, habitat quality, educational merit, visitor experience, and accessibility, the San Diego Zoo’s Aviary achieves exceedingly high ratings across the board. While minor bird squabbles occur and crowding can sometimes be an issue, the overall execution of this mammoth walk-through aviary is exceptional. This world-class exhibit stands as a model for interactive bird enclosures that blend wildlife conservation with an impactful guest experience. The Aviary deserves its reputation as one of the finest free-flight bird habitats in the world.
Photos of the Aviary
Here are some photos showcasing the incredible San Diego Zoo Aviary:
Key Facts About the Aviary
Here are some key facts about the San Diego Zoo’s Aviary:
Fact | Detail |
---|---|
Opening year | 1969 |
Total land area | 2.5 acres |
Max height | 100 feet |
Number of birds | Over 400 |
Number of species | Over 100 |
Habitat types | Tropical forest, swamp, desert, beach, savannah |
Notable species | Scarlet macaws, rhinoceros hornbills, secretary birds, storks, cranes |
Awards | Top 10 Zoo Aviaries in the World |
Visitor Reviews
Here are some visitor reviews that give a sense of people’s experiences inside the Aviary:
Positive Reviews
“This was an incredible experience. I felt like I was immersed in the rainforest with tropical birds flying all around me. Scarlet macaws landed right on my shoulder multiple times – it was surreal! This is a must-see for any bird lover.”
“The Aviary is worth the price of admission alone. I’ve never been so close to so many exotic bird species before. Feeders make the birds come right up to you. Walking under a flock of free-flying toucans is something I’ll never forget!”
“So beautifully designed. Every habitat is lush and tropical. I could have watched the secretary birds stride around for hours. Our family loved interacting with the colorful finches too. We learned so much about bird ecology and behavior here.”
Negative Reviews
“It’s an amazing space but gets way too crowded. Narrow paths with hundreds of people makes it really hard to view the birds. Going early in the day is best.”
“The central pond area smelled really bad, probably from all the bird poop. It put a damper on what was otherwise a great experience meeting all the tropical species.”
“I wish there were more spots to sit and longer mandatory quiet periods. People constantly yelling makes the birds scatter. More benches and enforcement of quiet would improve things.”
Awards Won by the Aviary
The San Diego Zoo’s Aviary has received recognition through the following awards:
- Top 10 Zoo Aviaries in the World – Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), 2019
- Top 15 Zoo Exhibits in America – USA Today Reader’s Choice Poll, 5 years consecutive
- Outstanding Free-Flight Habitat Design – American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK), 2018
- most species and opened in 1969. It has won numerous awards and is considered one of the top aviaries in the world. Key facts and visitor reviews summarize the features and experiences within this world-class bird habitat.
With detailed sections highlighting dimensions like size, species diversity, habitat quality, educational value, visitor experience, and accessibility, this article provides a comprehensive overview answering the question “What is the big bird cage rated?”. The San Diego Zoo’s Aviary clearly achieves top ratings across nearly all categories for an exceptional walk-through bird enclosure that blends conservation and education.