The New McNeil Avian Center Opens

I was invited to the preview reception for the unveiling of the McNeil Avian Center at Philadelphia Zoo. Now Philadelphia’s most exotic avian species have a new home in this attractive environmentally friendly building. The facility implements geo-thermal climate control as well as natural ventilation and lighting that adjusts accordingly to the outside conditions.

Within this green space flourished a recreation of an African Savanna and a Tropical Forest (above), as well as a Pacific Island exhibit and Shade Grown Coffee habitat.

Upon entering the building one is greeted by a pair of impressive Rhinoceros Hornbills and immediately captivated by colorful free flying birds in the flagship Tropical Rainforest. As I walked through the open exhibit Crimson-rumped Toucanettes (above) zipped passed me; Piping Guans walked cautiously along branches as a Violaceous Turaco made short flights from tree to tree exposing its bright red underwings. On the ground I caught sight of a Roul Roul, an 11” partridge with a ruddy crest, hiding amongst a stand of dense vegetation. The world’s largest pigeon, the Victoria Crowned Pigeon (below) perched on a railing of the bridge over a small stream that flows from an elevated waterfall. Yes these species come from all parts of the globe, but they represent examples of ones that can be found in the rainforest.

By contrast the open environment of the African Savanna showcases birds in a more compact space. This evening the Hamerkops and an Egyptian Plover could be seen drinking at the small pond as a Blue-breasted Kingfisher, Buff-crested Bustard and Blue-bellied Rollers (below) were being fed by the cheerful bird keeper. Several Sacred Ibis preened on an elevated branch while Golden-breasted Starlings flew about the sub-saharan landscape.

Two smaller exhibits included birds from Hawaii, Guam and Indonesia as well as those that could be found in a Central American shade grown coffee plantation. Each one of these four areas provides a wealth of information, education and inspiration to learn more about these amazing birds and their environment.

The grand finale of my avian evening came unexpectedly in the form of a short but extraordinary multi media presentation in the state of the art Migration Theatre. By animation, film footage, and physical interaction, I was captivated by the story of a young Baltimore Oriole’s migratory journey from Philadelphia to Central America and back again. The presentation also showcased other species such as the plight of the Red Knots and the critical importance of our region to the success of migrating species.

If you are in the Philadelphia area this summer, be sure to visit the zoo’s brilliant McNeil Avian Center for a delightful interactive experience, and be sure to bring the kids.