The National Aviary’s Veterinary Technicians are highly skilled bird nurses that are the first line for emergency medicine, administering daily medications, wound care and specialized treatments for birds. They are uniquely skilled at taking x-rays, collecting blood and performing other tests on over 200 species of birds. The technicians fill prescriptions specifically designed for birds and medicate an average of 30 patients twice a day. They are even the anesthesiologists and surgical assistants during surgery. Each year, the technicians administer over 350 vaccines to help keep the bird collection healthy. These impressive veterinary technicians are the key to providing medical care that saves lives and prevents diseases in over 800 birds.