by Amanda Osborne

A walk through the North America Aviary at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium can prove to be a relaxing and tranquil experience.

From the "creak" of the wooden screen doors, to the sound of rippling water, and even the call of the bald eagles next door...you're transported to a zen space during your visit. 

And then, you notice the chirps of the birds that call the Aviary, home. 

So, where did these birds come from? 

Most of the birds in the North America aviary came to the Columbus Zoo from wildlife rehabilitators, and each has been injured in some way that prevents it from surviving in the wild. Our Animal Care staff provides food, shelter, and habitat that closely mimic their native surroundings. 

As guests slowly stroll down the wooden plank path, they'll notice signs that offer an abundance of information that they can immediately use when they return home and see the same species of birds in their yards and in their communities!

When you're visiting the Columbus Zoo's North America aviary, 

  • Walk slowly and quietly. Don't rush through...Enjoy discovering the space. 
  • Informational signs are everywhere!  Take time to read them, and learn more about the birds that live in or migrate over Ohio. 
  • Stop on the bridge or take a seat on one of the benches, and spend 10 minutes being still.  You'll be able to take in the vibrant colors of their feathers and even hear them talking to one another. 
  • Come back year-round!  The North America Aviary is magical in the winter, too. 

Let's meet some of the birds living at the Columbus Zoo's North America Aviary.

Cedar Waxwing

pretty bird on branch

  • They're usually found throughout the state in the spring and summer.
  • Their population numbers tend to decrease in the fall and winter.
  • They're commonly found near reliable sources of berry-producing bushes and trees.

The calls of this species are of such a high frequency that some people may not even be able to hear them! Their call translates as a soft-whistled "tsee-tsee-tsee".

American Robin

robin in branch

  • Robins are found just about anywhere in Ohio!
  • They are present throughout all seasons and within all habitats.

Even though robins are thought of as the first birds of spring, they actually stay throughout most of the United States during the winter. 

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

bird on branch

  • Strictly a spring migrant, they arrive in southern Ohio in late April, moving through to northern parts of the state by early to mid-May.
  • Rose-breasted grosbeaks build such flimsy nests that eggs are often visible from below through the nest bottom!
  • Their diet consists of seeds, buds, berries, insects, and fruit.

The song of the rose-breasted grosbeak is noted as one of the more beautiful bird songs.

Red-Winged Blackbird

bird in tree

  • They're commonly found in Ohio.
  • They're often viewed as an "early sign of spring".

Roosts of red-winged blackbirds vary in size per season. While the size of sumer roosts tend to be smaller, winter flocks can number in the millions! While most of these birds are red-winged blackbirds, other birds like starlings are often observed mixed into the roosts. 

American Goldfinch

yellow bird on tree branch

  • They're easily found across the entire state of Ohio throughout the year.
  • They're commonly spotted in open habitats and around backyard feeders. 

The flight pattern of the American goldfinch is often compared to a rollercoaster! They fly up and down repeatedly - similar to a rollercoaster's hills. 

White-faced Ibis

white face ibis

  • They're typically not found in Ohio, but may be seen occassionally.
  • Their impressively long legs and bill are perfect for wading in shallow water and probing soft mud for food.
  • They love insects, small crustaceans, and fish. 

You may see them living in freshwater marshes, ponds, rice fields or flooded pastures.

Visit the North America Aviary during YOUR next visit to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium!

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