The Houston Zoo’s Birds of the World exhibit is a captivating addition to the zoo’s impressive collection of avian species. Spanning three distinct aviaries, this new exhibit transports visitors on a global journey, showcasing the diverse and fascinating birds found in the African Savanna, North American Woodlands, and South American Wetlands.
Exhibit Overview
The Birds of the World exhibit is set to open on August 30, 2024, after a $13.5 million investment by the Houston Zoo. This expansive exhibit will house approximately 15 bird species from around the world, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to observe and learn about these remarkable creatures.
Aviaries and Habitats
The Birds of the World exhibit is divided into three distinct aviaries, each designed to replicate the natural habitats of the featured bird species.
African Savanna
This aviary will showcase the vibrant and diverse birdlife found in the African savanna region, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of this iconic ecosystem.
North American Woodlands
Visitors will be able to observe the feathered inhabitants of the North American woodlands, experiencing the beauty and diversity of the region’s avian residents.
South American Wetlands
The South American Wetlands aviary will be the new home for the zoo’s flamingo flock, providing an opportunity to learn about these iconic and colorful birds and the wetland habitats they thrive in.
Avian Conservation Environment
The Birds of the World exhibit also features the Avian Conservation Environment building, a dedicated space for the zoo’s bird care professionals to perform essential tasks, including breeding programs for critically endangered species such as the blue-billed curassow and Saint Vincent parrot.
Bird Species and Conservation
The Houston Zoo is home to over 200 species and 800 individual birds, making it one of the largest avian collections in the United States. The zoo plays a vital role in bird conservation, partnering with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to house birds rescued from the illegal pet trade and care for injured birds that cannot be returned to the wild.
Zoo Ball 2024
To celebrate the opening of the Birds of the World exhibit, the Houston Zoo will host the Zoo Ball 2024 – Wings of Wonder event, presented by Phillips 66. This event offers various sponsorship opportunities, including tables and tickets with different levels of perks and recognition.
Bird Saving Summer Initiative
The Houston Zoo’s Bird Saving Summer initiative aims to highlight the zoo’s efforts in saving birds in the wild. Through this initiative, the zoo provides tips and information for visitors to help protect birds, such as creating wildlife-friendly spaces, buying bird-friendly coffee, turning off lights during migration seasons, and reducing single-use plastics.
Flamingos at the Zoo
The South American Wetlands aviary will be the new home for the Houston Zoo’s flamingo flock. A group of flamingos is called a “flamboyance,” a term derived from the French word ‘flamber,’ meaning “flame,” reflecting the vibrant-colored feathers of these iconic birds. Flamingos are born with dark gray feathers and acquire their pink color from their diet rich in carotenoids. They also look for brightly colored partners when mating as a sign of greater access to food.
Additional Information
In addition to the main event, the Zoo Ball 2024 will also feature an After Party, and various sponsorship opportunities are available, including the After Party Sponsorship, Zoo Ball Bag Sponsorship, Live Auction Sponsorship, Shoe Valet Sponsorship, and Enrichment Wall Sponsorship.
References
- https://www.zoochat.com/community/media/birds-of-the-world-sign.717917/
- https://www.houstonzoo.org/events/zoo-ball-2024/
- https://www.houstonzoo.org/bird-saving-summer/
- https://eu.statesman.com/story/news/state/2024/06/20/houston-texas-zoo-flamingos-birds-of-world/74155326007/
- https://www.houstonzoo.org/explore/exhibits/bird-habitats/