We are pleased that our new block of aviaries are now finished!
The new aviary block is now finished
Visitors will have noticed that we have fewer birds tethered when they first arrive at our weatherings than we did previously. Following guidance from avian experts, we have made the decision to not restrict the birds, and move away from the practice of tethering birds to perches for great lengths of time.
In order for us to do this, we have built a new block of aviaries which opens onto our Flying Ground. Each bird will have it’s own aviary, furnished with a window, perches and planting to give them plenty of enrichment. Each aviary has a hatch, which can be opened to allow the birds to fly out and join in with our displays.
Lady, our Merlin being let out from her new aviary. Some of the birds need a little coaxing as they adjust to their new surroundings.
We have already been doing this with our Owls, Vultures and Red Kites for a few years, and it has certainly had a positive impact on the birds welfare, as well as the popularity of the flying displays.
The process is not as simple as just taking a bird that is used to be tethered and releasing it into an aviary. Many of our birds are imprinted on their handlers, and as such are very keen to get to them when they pass as they are excited for what the handlers bring! Over time, young birds learn that sitting patiently on a perch will grant them that contact, food or freedom to fly (a training process called positive reinforcement which is used across species). Adjusting to life in an aviary can take time, as the birds now have the choice of sitting where they want and moving around freely.
The freedom to move can pose a risk in itself, as many people believe that bigger is better in terms of aviary size. However, some species can cause themselves injuries if provided with enough space to get up speed and crash into the enclosure walls. Whilst we do everything we can to prevent this, it is a risk and as such, the process of moving birds into their new aviaries will be taken slowly to ensure that their welfare and wellbeing are our priority.
Some of our birds will still be tethered for short periods of time before flying, as this is their routine. However, we hope that any new members to the Flying Team will be able to fly directly from and to their aviaries, which will no doubt enhance the experience for visitors, as well as demonstrating the highest standards of bird welfare.
The addition of this new aviary block has also created an opportunity for us to have a sheltered flying area where we can still train and exercise our birds in inclement weather. Whilst this area will not be accessible to general visitors, it may be used for pre-booked group activities.
Titch our Tawny Owl flying down the corridor