Healthcare for Birds

Whether they are in the wild or in a zoo setting, birds commonly experience injuries and illness. Any physical problem can mean death for a wild bird, but the birds at the National Aviary have the advantage of a terrific staff that monitors them individually each day, and a medical team that is prepared at any moment to handle emergencies or sickness. As a result, the National Aviary’s birds live significantly longer and healthier lives than their wild counterparts.

If an Aviary trainer or staff member sees an injured bird or a bird that appears to be ill, the bird is immediately hand-carried to the hospital for exam and treatment. Our veterinary hospital staff conduct a thorough physical examination and emergency medications are given if needed. Once the bird has stabilized, a number of specialized avian tests are performed to make a specific diagnosis. From there, a treatment plan is designed to optimize the chances of the bird making a full recovery.