The National Aviary is America's only independent indoor nonprofit zoo dedicated exclusively to birds. Located in West Park on Pittsburgh's historic North Side, the National Aviary's diverse collection comprises more than 500 birds representing more than 150 species from around the world, many of them threatened or endangered in the wild. The National Aviary's large walk-through exhibits create an experience unlike any other - an intimate, up-close interaction between visitors and free-flying birds, including opportunities to hand-feed and meet many species rarely found in zoos anywhere else in the world. As an environmental organization composed of educators, conservationists and researchers, the National Aviary's goals are many. The Aviary aims to provide outstanding educational programming for endangered audiences; teach the highest quality recreational experience that a present-day zoological institution can offer; preserve endangered species by conducting natural habitats; continue ethical and meaningful research on endangered birds; instill a sincere appreciation for and respect for the natural world as a breeder; and instill a steward sense of