Adrian Paul, an orc from Weta, Stan Lee and Kevin Sorbo were some of the attractions at Salt Lake Comic Con 2013
Tracy Aviary offers unique bird experiences
Salt Lake City’s Tracy Aviary is the oldest and largest free-standing public aviary in the United States. According to Tim Brown, the aviary’s executive director, the Tracy Aviary is unique because it focuses solely on birds.
“Kids love it,” stated Tim. He also sees the aviary as an affordable family outing. “It’s an easy place to visit, a nice walk and beautiful landscape.” Russell Lord Tracy had accumulated about 200 birds in his backyard bird collection in the Avenues. There were so many that the neighbors began to complain about the noise. He needed to find a new place for them. About the same time, the Hogles donated a plot of land for a zoo. Salt Lake City’s zoo moved from Liberty Park to the land donated by the Hogles. This left the city with about 8 acres and a perfect site for Russell Lord Tracy’s birds. Open since 1938, the aviary has gone through some renovations. The most recent include Destination Argentina in 2005, the Kennecott Wetland Immersion Experience in 2009 and the South American Pavilion in 2010 where most of the tropical birds including Toucans can be seen. According to the 2008-2009 Annual report, the Tracy Aviary’s mission is to foster “caring for the natural world, enriching and transforming lives through our connection with birds.” They offer programs that include free admission to children who may otherwise be unable to afford the experience. While the Tracy Aviary focuses on birds, it also creates award-winning architecture and preserves the Chase Mill, the oldest standing industrial building in Utah, which is available for parties and other get-togethers. The Tracy Aviary is open every day except for Christmas and Thanksgiving. Their hours are 9am to 5pm. For more information, please check their web site. This article was originally published at examiner.com. Links updated Sept. 2016. Check out the videos and poll below. |
|
Bird at Tracy Aviary
Backyard Argentina Birds at Tracy Aviary
Southern Ground Hornbill at Tracy Aviary
Southern Ground Hornbill 2
Backyard Argentina Birds at Tracy Aviary
Southern Ground Hornbill at Tracy Aviary
Southern Ground Hornbill 2